Chris Paul’s basketball camps and AAU team have produced 31 players on 13 NBA playoff teams for the 2026 postseason, according to ESPN.
How many playoff players trace their development to Chris Paul’s programs
The number includes current stars such as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Brunson, De’Aaron Fox, Jamal Murray, Trae Young, DeMar DeRozan, Fred VanVleet, CJ McCollum, Malik Monk, Jordan Poole, Coby White and Jared McCain.
Why Paul’s mentorship remains relevant after his retirement
Paul retired in February after 21 seasons, ending his pursuit of an NBA championship with the LA Clippers, but his influence persists through the athletes he has trained since 2008.
His elite basketball camp for high schoolers, Team CP3 AAU squad and leadership program have mentored nearly 2,000 players, teaching skills ranging from defensive reading to financial management and NBA life navigation.
What the mentorship network means for the 2026 playoffs
The presence of 31 Paul-connected players across 13 teams shows how his developmental model continues to shape the league’s point guard landscape and team compositions.
How many players has Chris Paul mentored through his programs
Paul has mentored nearly 2,000 players since 2008 through his camps, AAU team and leadership initiatives.
Which Paul-connected players are impacting the 2026 playoffs
Notable examples include Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Brunson, De’Aaron Fox, Jamal Murray, Trae Young and Cade Cunningham.