LOS ANGELES — Former Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal is weighing in on the backlash surrounding his new number, one tied to another former Sun and Valley favorite.
Clippers guard Bradley Beal (0) looks up at the scoreboard as he plays against the Suns during a game at the Mortgage Matchup Center on Nov. 6, 2025. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
According to Etienne Catalan, the Los Angeles Clippers have switched Beal to No. 3 from No. 0, the same number worn by Chris Paul during his time with the franchise. Paul wore the number throughout his NBA career and said the Clippers would retire it after the team moved on from him last season.
That has made the decision to list Beal as No. 3 even more significant, particularly given Paul’s status as one of the most important players in Clippers history.
Beal responded to the reaction with a pair of comments on X, acknowledging the controversy while also defending Paul’s place in basketball history.
Is that the topic of the day? Lol
— Bradley Beal (@RealDealBeal23) September 10, 2026
He’s a legend!
The HISTORY and BRAND can’t be touched, nor erased!!!
— Bradley Beal (@RealDealBeal23) September 10, 2026
Nov 4, 2022; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul (3) dribbles against the Portland Trail Blazers during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
The backlash isn’t solely about Paul’s time with the Clippers, though. It also reflects his impact on the franchises he helped elevate, including the Suns. Paul’s arrival in Phoenix played a major role in the team’s resurgence and helped lead the Suns to the NBA Finals during the 2020-21 season. His leadership, playmaking and veteran presence became central to the identity of that team.
Although Paul’s tenure in the Valley ended before the Suns returned to championship contention, his impact on the organization remains an important part of its history.
Apr 8, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Bradley Beal (3) reacts during the first half against the Golden State Warriors at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
That’s what makes Los Angeles’ decision even more noteworthy. It’s not simply a former Sun wearing another former Sun’s number. It’s about what Paul represents to the franchises he played for and the significance of the numbers worn by players who helped shape their identities.
However, Beal’s response made one thing clear: Paul’s legacy, whether with the Clippers, Suns or across the NBA, can’t be replaced.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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