Klay Thompson, a name synonymous with success and legacy in the NBA, is set to return to the Bay Area on Tuesday for his first game back as a member of the Dallas Mavericks. For the Golden State Warriors and their devoted fans, this return is a momentous occasion, celebrating one of the greatest players in franchise history. However, Thompson, while acknowledging his past, has made it clear that his future is now firmly focused on his new journey with the Mavericks.
Moving Forward: Klay Thompson’s Focus on the Mavericks
In an exclusive interview with Andscape following the Mavericks’ 122-120 loss to the Denver Nuggets, Thompson reflected on his new chapter with the Mavs: “That chapter is over,” he said. While his return to the Bay Area will undoubtedly spark nostalgia for the Warriors’ faithful, Thompson is intent on looking forward. His priority is clear: winning with Dallas, not dwelling on the past.
“I’m in the midst of trying to win here. There’s no point in missing anything when we have such a great opportunity here to be great,” Thompson explained. His focus is now on contributing to the Mavericks’ success, emphasizing the importance of moving forward and giving his best to his new team.
Klay Thompson’s Legacy with the Warriors
Thompson’s legacy with the Warriors is undeniable. Drafted by the Warriors in 2011, the five-time NBA All-Star played 11 seasons in Golden State, becoming an integral part of one of the most successful teams in NBA history. With four NBA championships, Thompson is etched in Warriors history, ranking sixth in franchise points (15,531) and second in 3-pointers made (2,481), only behind Stephen Curry.
During his time with the Warriors, Thompson cemented his place as one of the greatest shooters of all time, highlighted by his legendary 60-point game in 29 minutes against the Indiana Pacers in 2016. His unmatched shooting prowess and significant contributions helped the Warriors win four titles, while also setting records, such as making an NBA-record 14 3-pointers in a game against the Chicago Bulls in 2018.
Despite his remarkable accomplishments, Thompson’s relationship with the Warriors came to an end when contract negotiations stalled, and the team opted not to offer an extension. Thompson then made the decision to join the Dallas Mavericks in the summer of 2024 on a three-year, $50 million deal.
New Beginnings in Dallas
With the Mavericks, Thompson has embraced his new role alongside stars Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. The team is in the midst of a rebuilding phase after missing the playoffs last season, but Thompson is confident in the Mavericks’ potential to make a deep run in the playoffs. “We have some real experience and a chance of winning,” he said, despite the team’s 5-5 record at the start of the season.
Thompson, currently the third-highest scorer for the Mavericks with 14.2 points per game, has adjusted to his new team dynamic. He believes in the long-term potential of the Mavericks, citing the importance of peaking at the right time as the season progresses.
Returning to the Bay Area: A Mixed Emotions Return
As Thompson heads back to the Bay Area for the first time since his departure, the Warriors are planning a special tribute to their former star. The game will be dubbed “Salute Captain Klay” night, and fans will receive white captain’s hats in his honor. Golden State coach Steve Kerr expressed anticipation for the emotional night, saying, “It will be very emotional. I know our fans are geared up for it and can’t wait to see Klay.”
However, despite all the fanfare, Thompson remains grounded. While acknowledging the significance of the game, he doesn’t expect to be distracted by the festivities. “Basketball is basketball,” he said. Thompson is more focused on the upcoming NBA Cup and the Mavericks’ season, determined to win and stay the course.
Klay Thompson’s Legacy and the Future
While Thompson may no longer be donning a Warriors jersey, his legacy with the team will live on. The Warriors have announced plans to retire his No. 11 jersey one day, a fitting tribute to one of the most influential players in their history. As for Thompson, he’s focused on making his mark with the Mavericks, looking ahead to what he believes will be a special season.
As his former Warriors teammates, like Curry and Green, continue their quest for championships, Thompson is equally determined to achieve greatness in Dallas. Though his departure from Golden State may have marked the end of one chapter, for Klay Thompson, the best is yet to come.
Stay tuned as Klay Thompson embarks on this exciting new chapter with the Mavericks and proves that, in the NBA, there’s always room for reinvention.
