In a notable development for the Los Angeles Clippers, Bradley Beal has willingly allowed Chris Paul to retain the No. 3 jersey, a number Paul has sported since his high school days at West Forsyth. This decision was reported by ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk, who also noted that Beal has yet to announce which number he will don during the 2025-26 NBA season.

Beal recently signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the Clippers following a buyout agreement with the Phoenix Suns on July 16. Meanwhile, Chris Paul struck a surprise deal with the Clippers on Monday, marking his return to the franchise with which he enjoyed six seasons from 2011 to 2017. This move could potentially signal Paul's final year in the league, aligning his return with the team's championship aspirations for the upcoming season. Despite the crowded backcourt situation, which now includes Paul, Beal, James Harden, and Kris Dunn, the situation presents a depth advantage for head coach Tyronn Lue.

While the choice of jersey number may not hold immense significance for Paul, it does afford him the opportunity to maintain consistency in his branding throughout his career. His nickname, CP3, serves as a tribute to his familial legacy, as he is the third individual in his family to carry the initials CP, following his father, Charles Paul, and older brother, CJ Paul. Conversely, Beal has prominently worn No. 3 throughout his 13-year NBA career, with the exception of his one collegiate season, where he donned the number 23 at Florida in 2011-12—a number he chose in homage to Dwyane Wade. Should Beal wish to revert to his previous college number, he may need to negotiate with Patrick Baldwin Jr., who currently holds No. 23 with the Clippers after joining the team in March.