Gregg Popovich Explains Why He Used To Hate Chris Paul

Gregg Popovich and the San Antonio Spurs pulled off a surprising coup this summer when they signed Chris Paul to a contract.

Understandably, many are giddy at the prospect of him mentoring Victor Wembanyama – particularly after the positive impact he had during his brief stint with the New Orleans Pelicans.

This week, Popovich spoke out about the Paul addition during Spurs Media Day.

He also explained why he used to hate Paul.

“I’ve despised Chris for many years,” Popovich said.

Reporter: “You mentioned Pop. He was up here a little while ago and he said that he used to despise you for years.”

Chris Paul: “Yeah, it’s mutual.” 😂pic.twitter.com/TpZfGzwE3f https://t.co/CJoSQkS2HW

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“It was difficult to play against him because he’s a clever, clever, clever player. His IQ is off the charts. It was always difficult because he’s thinking ahead of us coaches. You hate to play against him, but you respect the hell out of him.”

When these comments were later replayed to Paul, he had a funny response.

“Yeah, it’s mutual,” he shot back.

What will Paul and Popovich be able to do next season? Time will tell.

Jennifer Withers Hoey

Jennifer Withers Hoey is a former Business Development Manager who transitioned to writing about Sports. With valuable connections all over the West Coast, she has used those contacts to break some of the most interesting stories pertaining to the Portland Trail Blazers, Oregon Ducks, LA Lakers, LA Clippers, Seattle Supersonics (RIP), and more.