In a recent development regarding the Los Angeles Clippers, new acquisitions Bradley Beal and Chris Paul will not be competing for the No. 3 jersey. ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk reported that Beal has graciously decided to allow Paul to retain the jersey number he has worn since his high school days at West Forsyth. Beal has yet to announce which number he will don for the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season.

Beal joined the Clippers on a two-year, $11 million contract after completing a buyout with the Phoenix Suns on July 16. This comes alongside Paul's unexpected agreement to a contract with the Clippers on Monday, which marks his return to the franchise with which he enjoyed six successful seasons from 2011 to 2017. His return to Los Angeles aligns with the team’s aspirations for a championship in the 2025-26 season, although this move raises questions given the depth in the Clippers' backcourt.

With the addition of Beal and Paul, the Clippers' backcourt now boasts a roster that includes James Harden and Kris Dunn, presenting a wealth of options for head coach Tyronn Lue. While the selection of jersey numbers may not have significant implications for Paul's career, it does offer the opportunity for consistent branding throughout his professional journey. Paul's No. 3 jersey and his nickname 'CP3' serve as honors to his family legacy as he is the third Charles Paul. Similarly, Beal, a three-time All-Star who has worn No. 3 throughout his 13 NBA seasons—apart from wearing No. 23 during his college tenure at Florida—has expressed that his choice was influenced by admiration for NBA legend Dwyane Wade. If Beal wishes to reclaim No. 23, he may face a challenge, as Patrick Baldwin Jr. currently holds that number after joining the Clippers in March.