Much of the interesting talks have been generated about Chris Paul and the Golden State Warriors, it is indeed bizarre and unimaginable to think that their union came into fruition this offseason.
Paul and Golden State formed one of the most notable rivalries in this modern era specifically on their bouts in the Western Conference. It all started when Paul, the former main man of the L.A. Clippers, ousted Stephen Curry and the Warriors in their grueling seven-game first-round series in 2014.
The rest was just history, as the Dubs emerged to their dynastic form and went on to deny Paul on their two more postseason collisions in both 2018 and 2019. Eight years after their first playoff encounter, Golden State already amassed five league championships while the star point man is yet to get that elusive ring.
In the eyes of Steve Kerr, it’s just worth noting that it has been a full-circle moment for them with Paul. From battling his wizardry and frustrating antics up to this moment that they are set to share the court with him for an unlikely collaboration, the Dubs head coach threw an enticing personal analogy that reminds him of Paul joining them.
“You know, one of the funny things about this league is you compete against people and especially if you see someone in the playoffs over and over again like we did with Chris in Houston, and then all of a sudden you’re teammates or you’re coaching someone and you laugh at moments like this where you’re at each other’s throats for much of your career,” Kerr said as he appeared in NBA Today. “(It) reminded a little bit when I played, Reggie Miller and I played against each other in college and the pros as well. And I used to hate Reggie. Then, we became broadcast partners and he became a great friend. So, I feel like that’s kind of how it’s going to be with Chris.
“We all hated him because we were competing and he was so good. And now that’s our guy and we love him.”
Miller and Kerr starred in the UCLA-Arizona rivalry from the early to mid-80s given that both schools are within the Pac-12 Conference.
Their connection continued in the NBA when Miller’s Indiana Pacers dared to stand against Kerr and the Chicago Bulls during their quest for their second three-peat last 1998.
After a few years, both of them were able to unite as a team when Miller and Kerr were tapped by TNT as their analysts for their NBA broadcast games alongside the lead play-caller and now-retired Marv Albert.
This priceless, roller coaster experience of being with Miller will truly be significant for Kerr as he is set to approach and plug Paul into their system in Golden State.
The Warriors made a bold move this offseason just to acquire the future Hall of Famer, and Kerr can’t be more excited to have Paul at his side and help him get over the hump through their aid regardless if the star floor general will start for them or not.
“I’ve competed against him (Paul) too often and I know how difficult he is to beat,” Kerr said. “But yeah, we’re really excited to have Chris.
“It’ll be a fun season coming up.”
