Over the past two decades, Chris Paul and Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich have battled it out from the sideline and on the court a massive 81 times.
And there has been no love lost.
Ive despised Chris for many years, Popovich said.
The storied 75-year-old coach went on to explain why.
It was difficult to play against him because hes a clever, clever, clever player, Popovich said. His IQ is off the charts. It was always difficult because hes thinking ahead of all of us coaches.
When it came to Pauls media session, he acknowledged that hateful feeling was indeed felt on both sides.
Its mutual, Paul said.
He spoke about the pairs old battles and is excited to be playing under Pop rather than facing his team.
It was interesting, Paul said. The game was a lot different then in the way it was played. Ive played for a number of coaches now and am always excited about learning new things. Of course, I understand the knowledge of the game that I have, but I never stop learning. Im excited to hear Pops way of doing things.
As well as teaming up with Pop, Paul will be teaming up with the hottest young player in the league Victor Wembanyama.
The pair havent taken the court together as yet, but CP3 has already pinpointed some areas where he thinks he can elevate the French natives game.
Absolutely, Paul said. Just from us playing pickup, watching film. Hes also going on his second year. The league has definitely changed and evolved since I was in my second year. Theres a different type of spotlight on him than was on me and a lot of other players. Just trying to make sure he has the confidence to know that he can do whatever.
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