Paul frequently glanced down at his family sitting in the first row — wife Jada, 16-year-old son Chris Jr. and 12-year-old daughter Camryn. They continued living in Los Angeles when he left the Clippers six years ago. That led to watching their father on TV and sharing quick phone conversations before school.

When it was announced that Chris Paul was returning to the Los Angeles Clippers for his 21st NBA season, the narrative quickly shifted to what was expected to be his final season and that the upcoming season is essentially a farewell tour.

The 40-year-old guard says he is grateful for the combination of more time with his family while playing for a veteran-laden team with legitimate championship aspirations.