Recent developments for the Los Angeles Clippers indicate that there will not be competition for the No. 3 jersey between their two latest acquisitions. Notably, Bradley Beal has expressed his willingness to allow Chris Paul to retain the jersey number he has worn since his high school days at West Forsyth. As reported by Moneyline's Ohm Youngmisuk, Beal has not yet made a decision regarding the number he will wear during the 2025-26 season.

Beal's recent agreement with the Clippers involves a two-year contract worth $11 million, reached following a buyout with the Phoenix Suns on July 16. Meanwhile, Paul’s unexpected agreement to join the Clippers earlier this week marks a return to the franchise with which he spent six notable seasons from 2011 to 2017. This move could signify one of Paul’s final opportunities in the NBA as his decision aligns with the team’s ambitions for a championship in the upcoming season, although the fit seems complicated given the current depth in the backcourt.

The addition of both players has resulted in a robust backcourt for the Clippers, featuring Paul, Beal, James Harden, and Kris Dunn. This presents a favorable situation for head coach Tyronn Lue, who now has a wealth of options in that position. While the choice of jersey number might not have been crucial for Paul, retaining his number will allow him to maintain a sense of consistency throughout his career. Paul’s jersey number, along with his nickname 'CP3', pays homage to his family, as he is the third 'CP' following his father, Charles Paul, and older brother, CJ Paul. Beal, who has donned No. 3 for his first 13 seasons in the NBA, originally wore No. 23 during his sole college season at Florida in 2011-12, a number he selected out of admiration for Dwyane Wade. Should Beal opt to revert to his college number, negotiations may be necessary, as Patrick Baldwin Jr. currently holds No. 23 after signing with the Clippers in March, despite having a split tenure between the NBA and G League.