Golden State Warriors fans are in for an emotional evening as Klay Thompson returns to the Chase Center in a Dallas Mavericks jersey for the first time since departing the team after 11 successful seasons. On Tuesday night, Thompson and the Mavericks will face off against the Warriors, with a special pregame ceremony planned to honor Thompson’s significant contributions to the team.
A Warm Welcome Back for “Captain Klay”
To commemorate his return, every fan in attendance will receive a captain’s hat—a nod to Thompson’s tradition of boating to games, which earned him the affectionate title of “Captain Klay.” The Warriors have organized a “Salute Captain Klay” ceremony to pay tribute to his legacy, urging fans to arrive early “by land or by sea” for the occasion.
Warriors President and COO Brandon Schneider expressed the significance of this moment, saying, “With Klay, it’s not the records or championships or clutch shots that stand out the most from the last 13 years — it’s the truly unique relationship he developed with the Bay Area and our fans. Warriors fans have laughed, cried, cheered, and celebrated alongside him, and it’s only fitting that they get a chance to show their love and salute him in his return to the Bay.”
Thompson Reflects on His Time with Golden State
Thompson’s 11-season career with the Warriors brought four championships and countless memories. After signing a three-year, $50 million contract with the Mavericks in July, he shared a farewell message with Bay Area fans, thanking them for their unwavering support.
While Thompson acknowledges the emotions surrounding his return, he’s determined to approach the game as he would any other. “It won’t be that hard, I’m a pro and I know what it takes to win in this league so it won’t be very hard,” he said. “I know how to turn the page and focus. That’s why I’ve been able to do what I’ve done for 12 healthy seasons, going on 13. Very blessed.”
An Emotional Homecoming After Challenges and Triumphs
Thompson endured a grueling journey back to the court after two significant injuries kept him out for over two years, including surgeries on his left knee and right Achilles. His comeback in January 2022 was a testament to his resilience, and his reunion with his former team is bound to bring back memories of that perseverance.
When asked about seeing familiar faces, Thompson expressed excitement about reuniting with the Warriors’ staff, especially those who supported him through his difficult rehab stints. “It’d be good to see all the people I grinded with… we got to know each other very well over those rehab stints, very well,” he shared.
The Warriors Move Forward Without Their Splash Brother
Thompson’s absence has left a noticeable gap, with Warriors training camp discussions often focusing on how the team will proceed without Curry’s longtime “Splash Brother.” Thompson’s legacy remains deeply embedded in the Warriors’ history, and Tuesday night’s ceremony aims to celebrate his impact on the franchise and Bay Area community.
As Dub Nation gathers to honor Thompson, the former Warrior is ready to embrace the moment, cherish the memories, and, of course, compete for victory. “It’s all good, though,” he said. “I’m embracing it. You only get to do one thing so many times in your life.”
