Chris Paul's $8.5 Million LA Palace (Photos)

Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chris Paul has quickly ensconced himself in the lifestyle of Los Angeles. After arriving, amid much fanfare, from the New Orleans Hornets in December, Paul and the high flying Blake Griffin have propelled the Clippers into one of the most intriguing teams in the entire NBA.

With thoughts of spending the next several seasons with the continually improving LA team, Paul elected to make a major real estate purchase in one of the world's swankiest areas.

In January, the Wake Forest alum bought the Bel Air home of recording artist Avril Lavigne, for the hefty sum of $8.5 million.

Bel Air is a hillside neighborhood of West Los Angeles, bordered by the Brentwood, Westwood and Holmby Hills areas of the city, as well as the municipality of Beverly Hills.

Here is a collection of photos showcasing the 12,184-square-foot Mediterranean style abode.

Take a look at an aerial view of the lush property, which comes equipped with a 10-car garage, swimming pool, hot tub, jacuzzi and outdoor living room.

Inside the mansion's walls, Paul has access to a bevy of amenities, including a gym, sauna and wine cellar.

Located in the Bel Air Crest gated community, just east of the 405 Freeway, Paul's pad is situated 12 miles north of the Clippers' Playa Vista neighborhood practice facility and 17 miles northwest of Staples Center, the Clippers' downtown LA home arena.

Other notable Bel Air residents, from the world of sports, include NBA legend Jerry West, as well as baseball hall of famers Frank Robinson and Dave Winfield.

Bel Air also serves as the home of former first lady Nancy Reagan and was the home of President Ronald Reagan, up until his death in 2004.