Paul says signing with Bobcats 'something to think about'

In a phone interview with The Associated Press to promote the Jordan Brand Classic high school basketball All-Star game on Saturday in Charlotte, Paul alternated praise for Jordan while stressing that his immediate concern is the Hornets' impending first-round playoff series.
"I'm one of those people who tries to stay in the moment," the four-time All-Star point guard said.
But Paul, who has a contract with Jordan's Nike Zoom Hyperfuse footwear and apparel division, didn't mind reminiscing about a meeting Jordan for the first time when the Lewisville, N.C., native played in the Jordan Brand Classic in 2003.
"Now that he has a team, he's like a kid in a candy store," Paul said of Jordan. "He's so happy because he's one of those guys that no matter what, he can't get away from the game."

Getting Paul would be Jordan's first big coup and wold help erase a decision made by the Bobcats in 2005 before Jordan's arrival. Charlotte turned down a trade offer to move up from the No. 5 spot in the draft. Paul then went to the Hornets at No. 4.
"I thought about it then when I got drafted," Paul said of the potential of playing pro ball in his home state. "But that feels like that was so long ago now."

"We were getting ready to take the team picture," Paul said. "I was sitting in one seat and (current Los Angeles Lakers guard) Shannon Brown was sitting in another seat and the middle seat was open. We obviously knew MJ was going to walk in and sit there. When he walked in, man, he just took over the room. And he actually walked up and knew my name. So that's something I'll never forget.