Klay Thompson's Fond Return to the Bay Area
In a momentous return to Chase Center, former Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson wore a different shade of blue, representing the Dallas Mavericks for the first time in front of his former home crowd. The game was a highly anticipated clash, given Thompson’s decade-long association with the Warriors—a tenure filled with championships, records, and unforgettable moments.
While sporting the Mavericks' colors, Thompson was met with a heartfelt tribute from the fans, many of whom donned captain's hats, a symbol of their admiration. His connection with the Bay Area runs deep, forged over 11 illustrious seasons that saw him and the Warriors reach the pinnacle of NBA success multiple times.
"It's not just the skill with Klay, it's not just the commitment to the organization, the competitive desire," Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed fondly. "There's an aura about him that connected our fans to him right away. That's what it takes. That's pretty rare to do all of that and have that kind of impact. But Klay had it."
During the clash, which marked the opening night of the NBA Cup, the Warriors faced off against the Mavericks, with the home team eventually prevailing 120-117. The win brought Golden State's season record to an impressive 9-2, while the Mavericks fell to 5-6. This victory, punctuated by a commanding 10-0 run driven by Stephen Curry late in the game, solidified the Warriors' early season dominance.
For Thompson, the night wasn't solely about nostalgia; he proved a formidable opponent, contributing 22 points for Dallas, marking an impressive 6-of-12 shooting from beyond the arc. Since his off-season arrival in Dallas on a three-year, $50 million sign-and-trade deal, Thompson has averaged 14 points and four rebounds, with a 35% success rate from the three-point line. Though these numbers mark a new chapter in his career, they pale in comparison to his career averages of 19.5 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 2.3 assists, with shooting splits of 45/41/86 during his time with Golden State.
Despite the shift in allegiances, Thompson’s legacy with the Warriors remains untarnished. His career-high 60-point game in 2016 stands as a testament to his unmatched scoring prowess.
Jason Kidd, the Mavericks' head coach, has been vocal about Thompson's impact, highlighting his ability to stretch the floor and the undeniable presence he brings on court. "A true pro... We can talk about his ability to shoot the ball, space, and his gravity. We can run him around. He's going to create space for others. So when you talk about the big picture, that's hard to find, and we didn't have that, and it was much needed. I think we got lucky to get him," Kidd noted.
While Thompson's current performance may not mirror the peak days enjoyed in the Bay Area, his contributions continue to enrich the sport, showcasing a player's evolution and adaptability beyond his team affiliations. His return to Chase Center highlighted the enduring bond he shares with the Warriors' faithful and the mutual respect between player and team.
As Thompson continues to forge new paths with the Mavericks, his heartwarming return to the place he once called home was as much a celebration of past triumphs as it was a demonstration of the journey still ahead. The memories shared under the electrifying lights of Chase Center will undoubtedly be cherished by fans and Thompson alike, a testament to the timeless magic of basketball and the deep-seated bonds it cultivates.