Before they became teammates, Chris Paul admitted that Stephen Curry was a “sworn enemy.” Naturally, playing together on the Golden State Warriors helped mend that bond, and today the respect is through the roof. It’s visible in how Curry has spoken in favor of CP3, since the abrupt end with the Los Angeles Clippers, and then the retirement announcement that shocked many.

To celebrate Paul, another former Warriors teammate and the current Executive Director-NBPA shared an emotional message. Stephen Curry made sure to repost this on his Instagram story with the caption that summarized the impact of CP3.

“It’s rare that a once-in-a-generation talent possesses both the power to dominate the game and the vision to lead it. I’ve seen firsthand what that looks like with Chris Paul, whose legacy extends far beyond the court. From negotiating higher salaries in the 2016 CBA and securing retiree health insurance to navigating the 2020 bubble, his dedication to the collective and his impact on the Players Association will be felt for decades. I’m so fortunate to have had the privilege of competing against him on the court and leading alongside him at the union. Congratulations on your retirement, my brother.-Andre Iguodala.”

Apart from being teammates, Iguodala also served with Chris Paul in the NBPA. The former was on the NBPA’s executive committee for more than a decade, including a four-year term as first vice president from 2019 to 2023. It coincided with CP3’s reign, who served as president from 2013 to 2021. The messages have been pouring in ever since Paul retired and stated that his career as an ‘NBA player’ is done.

Apart from sharing the Instagram story, Steph Curry also shared a message congratulating the 12-time NBA All-Star. “I just want to say congratulations, man,” Curry said. “An unbelievable career. 21 amazing years. A lot of battles against you, but a great year playing with you, so enjoy retirement. “I know I’m going to see you out on that golf course and everywhere, but congratulations, man. Beyond well-deserved.”

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Curry and Paul were teammates in Golden State during the 2023-24 NBA season, where Paul played in 58 games and averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 assists per game. This was supposed to be his farewell season with his native team. But those plans got cut short, not before some promises were made.

Chris Paul details backstabbing amid career honor promise

The Clippers sent him home after playing only 16 games. Reports of disagreements with the coaching staff followed “Point God.” But before this, the front office was very happy with the leadership of CP3. “Earlier in the season, Lawrence Frank sent me an article about how great my leadership was — an article I had never seen. He texted it to me, saying, ‘Man, this is great leadership right here.’” Paul explained during an appearance on long-time friend Carmelo Anthony’s 7PM in Brooklyn podcast.

Despite that endorsement, Paul was later informed that his services were no longer required. The contrast between public praise and his eventual dismissal became a central point of reflection. In fact, Frank told him that the organization planned to retire his jersey in the future. “He said that to me before he sent me home.” Paul added. But the exit came first.

It would have made Chris Paul the first Clippers player to get his jersey in the rafters. With the accolades of currently being second in all-time career assists and steals, only behind John Stockton. He was also an 11-time All-NBA selection, a nine-time All-Defensive player, and a six-time steals champion.