Why is Klay Thompson wearing number 31 for the Dallas Mavericks instead of number 11?
After 13 years with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson’s career has officially taken a new turn. He signed a 3-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks in a “sign-and-trade” deal involving multiple teams. This move marks the end of Klay Thompson’s successful era, highlighted by four championships with the Golden State Warriors. During that time, Klay Thompson was famously associated with the number 11 jersey. In fact, there were even reports that the Golden State Warriors would retire this number to honor Klay Thompson. However, he will not be wearing number 11 with the Dallas Mavericks.
Why can’t Klay Thompson wear number 11 for the Dallas Mavericks?
The reason is simple: the number 11 jersey of the Dallas Mavericks currently belongs to Kyrie Irving. As the team’s second star, Kyrie Irving is not obligated to give up his number for Klay Thompson unless he chooses to do so voluntarily. Therefore, Klay Thompson will have to wear a different number with the Dallas Mavericks starting in the 2024/25 season.
Why is Klay Thompson wearing number 31 for the Dallas Mavericks?
Klay Thompson will don the number 31 jersey with the Dallas Mavericks. He explained that this decision was inspired by two players: Jason Terry and Reggie Miller. Klay Thompson shared, “Jason Terry won the championship in 2011 with the Dallas Mavericks wearing number 31. We have similar playing styles.” As for Reggie Miller, he wore number 31 throughout his basketball career. Klay Thompson needs just 80 successful three-point shots to surpass Reggie Miller on the all-time NBA three-pointers list, a milestone he is likely to achieve during the 2024/25 season.
Klay Thompson was born on February 8, 1990, in Los Angeles, California, and is one of the standout players in the NBA, known for his exceptional three-point shooting. He was selected by the Golden State Warriors with the 11th pick in the 2011 draft and has been named an All-Star five times, winning four NBA championships. After a long injury hiatus, Klay returned to the court in January 2022. In addition to his sports career, he is also actively involved in charitable activities, supporting underprivileged children.
