The San Antonio Spurs entered the 2024-25 NBA season knowing they needed more than just young talent development.
Last year’s 22-60 record made it clear that veteran leadership was missing. Enter Chris Paul, a proven mentor with a track record of elevating young teams.
The transformation has been notable. While the Spurs struggled to reach five wins until late December last season, they’ve already matched that mark and then some, sitting at 6-6 less than a month into the new campaign.
But Paul’s impact extends beyond wins and losses.
In his 13th game with the Spurs, facing LeBron James and the Lakers, the veteran point guard etched his name deeper into NBA history, becoming just the third player ever to surpass 12,000 career assists.
12K ASSISTS FOR CP3!
Chris Paul joins John Stockton and Jason Kidd as the only players in NBA history to reach 12,000 assists ? pic.twitter.com/50ITAU2InC
— NBA (@NBA) November 16, 2024
He wasted no time reaching the milestone, needing less than four minutes of playing time to add to his already impressive legacy.
The historic moment came on a perfectly timed alley-oop to Victor Wembanyama.
Chris Paul becomes the 3RD PLAYER EVER with 12,000 assists!
And he does it on a lob to Wemby ? pic.twitter.com/qkwjCbu9dN
— NBA (@NBA) November 16, 2024
With the achievement, Paul joins elite company alongside John Stockton (15,806 assists) and Jason Kidd (12,091) in the NBA’s prestigious 12K assist club.
The Spurs’ schedule has run the gamut this season, featuring matchups against powerhouses like the title-contending Oklahoma City Thunder and struggling teams like the Washington Wizards.
Their performance has shown promise, even with several players sidelined by injuries.
While a complete assessment will require more time and a fully healthy roster, one thing stands out: Bringing in Paul has provided exactly the veteran presence the young team needs to progress to the next level.
NEXT: Analyst Raves About Victor Wembanyama's Wednesday Performance
