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LeBron James Shares Heartwarming Reaction to Chris Paul's Clippers Return Despite New Rivalry

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Borba | Last updated Jul 29, 2025 8:29 PM ET

For his 21st NBA season, 12-time NBA All-Star Chris Paul opted to return to the team he is most often associated with, the Los Angeles Clippers.

The decision is one that now makes him a cross-town rival of long-time friend, LeBron James of the Los Angeles Lakers. Regardless, James, who is heading into NBA season No. 23, took to his social media to share his excitement for Paul.

"This is dope," James wrote. "Happiness written all over his face!! Congrats @CP3."

Why Chris Paul Chose the Clippers

The 40-year-old Paul told the media at his introductory press conference on Tuesday that it was a "no-brainer" to run it back with the franchise where he was selected to the All-Star team five times and also return to where his family lives.

"It was a no-brainer," Paul said via ESPN. "If I'm really honest, I wanted to get back and play here by any means necessary."

Is This Chris Paul's Last NBA Season?

The assumption around the league is that Paul, who inked a one-year deal worth over $3 million to return to Los Angeles, will be playing his final season in 2025-26. However, when asked by ESPN's Malika Andrews in an interview if he was ready to call it his last, Paul admitted he's not ready to decide yet.

"I don't know," Paul said. "You know, I think throughout this season, at some point, guys that I know who've retired and all of this different kind of stuff...You know. You sort of figure it out yourself. It tells you. I think more than anything, this season I will definitely enjoy it. I don't take this for granted. I've been wanting to get back with my family for a while."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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