Chris Paul Hits Milestone as Spurs Collapse Against Bulls

CHICAGO, Ill. — Chris Paul reached a historic milestone Monday night, becoming the 20th player in NBA history to appear in 1,308 games. Despite his 18 points, nine assists, and six rebounds, the San Antonio Spurs squandered a 19-point lead, falling 112-105 to the Chicago Bulls at the United Center.

Paul, 39, turned back the clock with a vintage performance, but the Spurs’ second-half collapse overshadowed his achievement. San Antonio dominated early, leading by 19 points in the first half, but the Bulls rallied behind a physical defense and improved shooting. The Spurs committed 17 turnovers, which Chicago capitalized on to secure the win.

“One step at a time #CantGiveUpNow,” Paul posted on Instagram after the game, accompanied by photos of him boarding the team plane. Fans flooded the comments with praise, calling him the “Point God” and thanking him for his leadership.

Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs’ rising star, recorded 23 points, 14 rebounds, and eight blocks, but his inefficient shooting (10-of-22) and lack of support from teammates proved costly. Devin Vassell struggled, scoring 11 points on 5-of-14 shooting, while Jeremy Sochan contributed just seven points despite an efficient 5-of-7 night.

Acting head coach Mitch Johnson acknowledged the team’s struggles, particularly their inability to maintain intensity for a full 48 minutes. “We’re still learning how to play consistent basketball,” Johnson said postgame. “It’s frustrating because we’ve talked about this before.”

The loss highlighted ongoing issues for the Spurs, who are 18-18 this season after finishing 22-60 last year. While Paul’s leadership has been a bright spot, the team’s lack of depth and inconsistent performances from key players like Vassell and Sochan have raised concerns.

San Antonio’s backup big men also struggled, with Charles Bassey failing to contain Chicago’s Nikola Vucevic. The Spurs’ front office faces pressure to make roster improvements before the trade deadline, particularly in adding a reliable shooter and a backup center.

Despite the setback, Paul’s milestone underscores his Hall of Fame-worthy career. Most players above him on the all-time games played list are enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, and Paul is widely expected to join them on the first ballot.

The Spurs will look to bounce back Wednesday against the Milwaukee Bucks, with Paul and Wembanyama aiming to lead the team to a crucial win.