The Los Angeles Clippers point guard was effusive in his praise for his former teammate, who announced his retirement Tuesday.
Chauncey Billups' ability to connect with teammates is the biggest reason he'll go down as one of the best guards of the last 20 years. Thus, it's not surprising to see Chris Paul, who played against Billups for many years and then with him at the end of Billups' career, posted this emotional tribute on Instragram after Billups announced his retirement:
In a league that's filled with fierce competition and unfortunately at times jealousy, a veteran guard took me under his wing and told me and showed me what it means to be a professional and to ALWAYS help the next guy coming up behind you. One of the highlights of my career was the night that I found out I would get to play along side of Chaunce! I could go on and on talkin about this guy but I'll end by saying THANK YOU BIG SHOT!!!
Other players will surely express similar thoughts, but Paul's collage is noteworthy nonetheless because it illustrates Billups' legacy.