The touching story behind Victor Wembanyama and Chris Paul’s moment with JJ Redick’s sons
LOS ANGELES, CA – As the Los Angeles Lakers prepared for their first game after two postponements due to wildfires, the emotional weight of the situation was palpable. Lakers head coach JJ Redick emphasized effort in practice, encouraging the team to give their best despite the challenges. Postgame, Redick revealed a heartfelt story about his sons’ viral interaction with San Antonio Spurs players Victor Wembanyama and Chris Paul.
After the Spurs’ 126-102 victory over the Lakers, Wembanyama and Paul approached Redick’s sons, gifting them signed, game-worn jerseys. During his postgame press conference, Redick shared the emotional backstory.
“They had a collection of jerseys and cards, and they lost all that. So it’s really kind of them to do this,” Redick said. “Now they each have two because Austin [Reaves] also left some jerseys for them in his locker after practice. I’m grateful for the love, though I’m not surprised Chris did something like that.”
Redick reflected on his bond with Paul, which began during his playing career. Paul’s thoughtful gesture came after a phone call earlier in the day, setting the stage for the moment.
“Chris is like a brother to me,” Redick said. “We were talking about our inner circles—NBA people you’ve worked with or built relationships with over time. You develop this extended family. Chris called and said, ‘Vic and I are going to give your boys jerseys, no matter the outcome of the game.’ He knows they’re huge fans.”
Redick explained how his sons became avid collectors, often meeting NBA players through his podcast, which he hosted from home for two years.
In the game itself, the Lakers led by double digits at one point before a strong fourth quarter from the Spurs sealed the win. The loss marked the Lakers’ third straight defeat, with hopes of bouncing back against the Miami Heat on Wednesday.