Apr 2, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; San Antonio Spurs guard Chris Paul (3) in the first quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

Chris Paul Makes NBA History in Spurs vs Raptors

Originally posted on San Antonio Spurs on SI
By Matt Guzman | Last updated Apr 13, 2025 5:33 PM ET

For the final time of the season, San Antonio Spurs veteran Chris Paul made NBA history for the Silver & Black. All he had to do was line up for the opening tipoff.

The Spurs played host to the Toronto Raptors Sunday afternoon, marking Paul's 82nd start of the season — a first for any player in Year 20 of his career or later. Paul joins Michael Jordan and John Stockton as the only three players 39 or older to reach such a milestone. San Antonio is simply a witness.

Chris Paul is set to play in game 82 of 82 in Season 20, making him one of 3 players aged 39 or older to play in all 82.

Consistency showcased in small ways... and big ways... pic.twitter.com/vvSosfe1mH
— NBA (@NBA) April 13, 2025

"You know, it's a humbling experience just to be a part of it," Spurs acting coach Mitch Johnson said of Paul earlier in the season. "It's a testament to his longevity and what he's done and all the milestones and accolades that he's built up over his career."

This season, Paul has averaged 8.7 points, 3.6 rebounds and 7.4 assists on 42 percent shooting from the field. He's consistently been a leader for the Spurs' younger pieces, but that was expected. Perhaps what the veteran is more pleased with is the fact that he accomplished his one goal upon arriving in San Antonio.

Chris Paul is the first player in NBA history to play all 82 games in his 20th season or later.
— Jordan Howenstine (@AirlessJordan) April 13, 2025

"I (would) love nothing more than the opportunity to play, contribute, and hoop," he said during his introductory press conference. Now done with the 20th season of his career, he can safely say he did.

This article first appeared on San Antonio Spurs on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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