Christopher Emmanuel Paul Sr., known as CP3, emerged from North Carolina to become one of the most prolific point guards in professional basketball history. Selected fourth overall in the 2005 NBA draft, he maintained an elite level of play across two decades, securing numerous individual accolades and leading the league in assists and steals multiple times.
Formative Years and Education
Born in 1985 in Winston-Salem, United States, Paul attended West Forsyth High School. His development as a player included a standout senior season where he averaged 30.8 points and 9.5 assists per game. He subsequently played collegiate basketball for Wake Forest University, where he set multiple school freshman records and earned consensus first-team All-America honors before turning professional in 2005.
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Paul began his career with the New Orleans Hornets, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 2006. His career included lengthy stints with the Los Angeles Clippers, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Phoenix Suns. He later played for the Golden State Warriors and the San Antonio Spurs. During his time with the Clippers, his playmaking style helped define the team's fast-paced offensive identity.
Achievements and Leadership
Throughout his professional tenure, Paul was selected to 12 NBA All-Star teams, 11 All-NBA teams, and nine NBA All-Defensive teams. He earned the NBA Rookie of the Year Award in 2006 and received multiple All-NBA selections between 2008 and 2014. Beyond the court, he served as president of the National Basketball Players Association from 2013 to 2021.
Fast facts
- Born: 1985, Winston-Salem, United States
- College: Wake Forest University
- NBA Rookie of the Year: 2006
- Professional Debut: 2005
- Primary Position: Point guard
- Draft Position: 4th overall, 2005
Questions readers ask
Which colleges did Chris Paul attend?
He attended West Forsyth High School and Wake Forest University.
When did Chris Paul receive the NBA Rookie of the Year Award?
He won the award in 2006.
Achievements
- NBA All-Star Game Kobe Bryant Most Valuable Player Award
- Competed at the 2012 Summer Olympics
- Competed at the 2008 Summer Olympics
- 2006 FIBA World Championship
