Paul Family photo by: Bob Metelus
Chris Paul, Winston-Salem native and West Forsyth High School graduate, Class of 2003, is known to many as “CP3” and is an example of excellence and perseverance in the NBA. As he celebrates his 20 years in the league, his illustrious career is a testament to his skill, leadership and impact both on and off the court as a son, brother, husband, father and philanthropist.
A Star in the Making
Chris grew up in Lewisville with his parents, Charles and Robin, and older brother, Charles “C.J.” Paul. Both Paul sons inherited their father’s love for sports, and Charles coached his sons on various football and basketball teams throughout their childhood.
“Early on, both of our sons showed an interest in sports, really excelling in basketball. Like most families with kids involved in sports, we spent a lot of time at practices and games; then came the high school years when Chris’ talent really became evident,” said Robin Paul, Chris’ mother.
While at West Forsyth High School, Chris quickly made a name for himself on the basketball court.
As a high school junior, Chris averaged 25 points, five assists and four steals per game, showing his potential as a dynamic player. However, it was in his senior year that he truly shined on the court. Chris averaged an unheard of 30.8 points, eight assists and six steals per game. With his success on the court, off the court, the Paul family faced an unimaginable loss of his grandfather during Chris’ record senior year. Following his grandfather’s murder, Chris dedicated a game to him and, in that game, put up amazing stats with a 61-point game which was the age of his grandfather at the time of his death. This one game, and all it meant to Chris and his family, brought Chris national attention.
Collegiate Success at WFU
After graduating from high school, Chris decided to stay close to home, committing to Wake Forest University. He made an immediate impact and was named ACC Rookie of the Year, leading the Demon Deacons to a 21-10 record. In his sophomore season, Chris continued to dominate the court, and Wake Forest rose to the number one spot in national rankings, solidifying his reputation as one of the best point guards in college basketball.
The Road to the NBA
After two successful years at Wake Forest, Chris declared for the 2005 NBA Draft, changing his and his family’s life forever. His all-around ability made him a top prospect and, on June 28, 2005, the New Orleans Hornets selected him with the fourth overall pick. The hometown hero was on his way to becoming a legend in the NBA.
The Foundations of a Legendary Career
Chris wasted little time proving his decision to go pro was the right one, earning the NBA Rookie Of the Year award with an average of 16.1 points, 7.8 assists and 2.2 steals during his first season with New Orleans. His leadership on the court was the foundation for a career that would have All-Star appearances, record-breaking performances and a reputation as one of the best ever!
“It was surreal seeing Chris play in the NBA. After watching him play on teams in the Winston-Salem area, then at West Forsyth and Wake Forest, to then see him in the NBA, it was a great feeling as a dad,” Charles, Chris’ dad, commented.
Staying True to Your Roots
Over the years, Chris has played for seven teams, currently playing point guard for the San Antonio Spurs. But, even with all his fame and endorsements, Chris Paul has used his celebrity to make a difference in the community where he got his start to help those who know him as CP3 or the player at West Forsyth High School who made it to the big time!
Family and community have always been at the heart of Chris Paul, and he has gone above and beyond in attending to both.
In 2011, as Chris was making his mark on the NBA, he wed his high school sweetheart, Jada Crowley, and they now have two children, Christopher and Camryn. But, even with a busy career and family life, Chris wanted to give back to those who have supported him from the early days.
The CP3Foundation, officially known as the Chris Paul Family Foundation, was established in 2005 with a vision to positively influence individuals and communities, emphasizing three key areas: Education, with support for students through scholarships and literacy programs, Health, promoting wellness initiatives and providing underserved communities with resources and Empowerment, enabling youth to achieve their potential through leadership and mentorship programs.
“The Chris Paul Family Foundation has provided Thanksgiving meals for families, toys each Christmas for underprivileged children, an endowed scholarship to WFU for a Forsyth County basketball player each year and, in memory of Chris’ grandfather, Club 61 is a program where we bring children in from all over and teach them leadership skills; it’s important to us as a family to give back to our community,” Robin stated.
Chris’ commitment to giving back goes beyond financial contributions, and he actively participates in many of the foundation’s events, bringing awareness to the communities he serves.
Beyond the Court
At 39, Chris Paul continues to remain a dominant player on the court. This past December, Chris Paul was named the #2 All-Time Assist Leader in the NBA for his 20 years of playing. Along with his talent on the San Antonio Spurs, Chris is also using his vast experience to mentor the next generation of players. As Chris prepares to celebrate his 20 years in the NBA, he has transcended the game that he loves so much and has become an icon not only as a player, but in his off-court philanthropy, as well. Chris Paul’s story is one of using a God-given talent and having determination to pursue greatness in a sport. Chris Paul and his legacy, on and off the court, will forever be remembered and celebrated.
