Olympic Gold: The Anchor of Team USA
Beyond the NBA's "ringless" regret, Chris Paul is not short of gold internationally. He represented the USA in the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympics, winning two golds—one of the steadiest guards of the "Dream Team."
In Beijing 2008, Paul stood with Kobe, LeBron, Wade and Anthony; that "Redeem Team" beat Spain in the final. Paul's task was clear: orchestrate with precise screens and passes, and pressure the opponent's tempo with steals.
In London 2012, Paul remained the starting floor general. Under FIBA rules his mid-range and pick-and-roll were even more lethal, and in the USA's routs Paul was the man who "shared the ball evenly." Two Olympic golds leave his "national team" honor spotless.
Notably, Paul is among the few NBA core guards who adapt seamlessly to FIBA. Many stars falter under different rules, but Paul's "read defense-pass" game is universal—arguably easier for him abroad.
For Paul, the Olympic gold is another kind of fulfillment: proof his basketball wisdom holds on the world's highest stage. When the NBA ring lagged, the two golds at least told him—he belongs at the summit.
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