Paul Does It All As Hornets Sting Mavericks In O/T 112-108

Chris Paul just missed a triple-double by one rebound as he led the New Orleans Hornets to an overtime victory Saturday 112-108. Paul scored 33 points, 12 assists, 9 rebounds, as this was a big win for the Hornets despite it being just December 1. This game showed that they can win close games against NBA elite teams.

Chris Paul has become the hot topic of conversation over the last month, but if you are a regular reader?of mine you know that I have been one of Paul’s biggest proponents in the media since his days at Wake Forest. This young man continues to impress both on and off the hardwood, such as his touching tribute to his late college coach Skip Prosser.? Prosser was family to Paul, and just because he has found success at the NBA level, he has not forgotten what a profound effect the Wake Forest coach had on his life.

Paul led the way for New Orleans as six players were in double figures. Peja Stojakovic had a big night, with 22 points. Tyson Chandler, who is finally starting to show what possessed a team to pick him as a lottery player out of high school this year, had 21 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocked shots, 2 assists. David West had 11 points, and a game high 14 rebounds, Jannero Pargo came off the bench to score 11 as well, and Mo Peterson scored 10 points.

Dallas was led by Dirk Nowitzki, Jason Terry, and Josh Howard all with 19 points each. Jerry Stackhouse came off the bench to score 18, while Brandon Bass contributed 13 from the bench. The win puts New Orleans a half game ahead of Dallas in the Southwest Division. The Hornets are in second place with a record of 12-6, while Dallas is in third with an 11-6 mark.