I remember watching Sports Center one night in 2003. They did a story about a high school point guard in North Carolina. He was a senior at West Forsyth High School and had just recently signed a letter of intent to play the following year for a University in the ACC. By his side at the signing was his grandfather. His Grandfather was always there for him. Not long after the signing, his grandfather was beaten to death by 5 teenagers during a robbery in his carport.

The very next game this young point guard remained composed despite all that had just gone on. He was going to honor his grandfather by scoring 61 points.His previous high was 37. Midway through the third quarter he found himself on the free throw line, having just scored his 61st point. He had gotten to 61 at a record pace. If he kept going, the state scoring record could have easily been his. He stood at the line, took aim, and released a flat air ball that sailed out of bounds. His team comfortably ahead, he called time out and checked himself out of the game. Erupting into tears as he reached the bench.

His name was Chris Paul. I was instantly a fan. Over the next few years I followed his story at Wake Forrest. He matured quickly in college, becoming a top collegiate player. I often watched his games or checked the box scores and would think how he was a perfect fit for the Jazz.

Then came the 2005 draft. When the Jazz traded up to get the third pick and with Milwaukee and Atlanta already zeroed in on Andrew Bogut and Marvin Williams, I started getting excited. The union of this player and the Jazz was something I had been hoping would happen for years. The Jazz were on the clock and the only thing that could ruin this for me now was Deron Williams. And that’s exactly what he did.

During their rookie year I was envious of the Hornet fans. I hoped for Deron Williams success, but I was literally watching Paul bask in his success. Being drafted right next to each other locked the two together in the minds of many. Comparisons were done on a nightly basis. Year one easily went to Chris Paul, who also collected Rookie of the Year honors.

Year two was different though. Chris Paul still had a fantastic season. He improved a step over where he was the previous year. But year two clearly belonged to Deron Williams. If you measured Paul’s success by a step then Deron Williams improved by a leap and a bound. Not only were his stats up, but he became a leader who took his team on a run to the Western Conference finals.

I have had the chance to watch a lot of rookies up close. I have the opportunity to interview Jazz Rookies and free agents. I have seen them when they are young. Seen them mature (or refuse too). I have also seen some of the games biggest stars up close. I watched Deron Williams with Team USA in Vegas this summer. He belongs in that group. He carries himself with that level of confidence. He deserves to have his name mentioned with the best players in the game. He has continued to grow this offseason – the Jazz are now his team. He is the captain. He is the leader. It’s only the start of year three, but he is qualified, he is ready.

Two years ago I may have hoped Chris Paul would be a member of the team. But now I recognize Deron Williams is the team. It’s a young team with endless possibilities. Its time to see where Deron can take them. It’s his time. He’s on the clock.