After 13 seasons and four NBA championships with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson has bid farewell to the Bay Area and joined the Dallas Mavericks. Thompson, one of the greatest shooters in league history, penned an emotional message expressing his gratitude for an unforgettable journey.
Klay Thompson's departure from the Golden State Warriors marks the end of an era for the franchise that has dominated the NBA landscape in recent years. After 13 seasons in the Bay Area, Thompson, along with Stephen Curry, formed the iconic "Splash Brothers" duo that propelled the Warriors to four NBA titles.
Selected with the 11th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, Thompson quickly established himself as a sharpshooting threat, averaging over 40% from three-point range throughout his career. He played a pivotal role in all four of Golden State's championships, showcasing his uncanny ability to create shots for himself and his teammates.
Klay Thompson's Farewell: An Era Ends for Golden State Warriors
Thompson's time with the Warriors was not without its challenges. He suffered two major injuries, an ACL tear in 2019 and an Achilles tendon tear in 2020, that kept him sidelined for extended periods. However, upon his return in the 2021-22 season, he proved that his shooting touch was still intact, averaging 17.9 points per game.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Thompson expressed his gratitude to the Warriors organization and their loyal fans: "Oh Bay Area, there are not enough words and images to convey how I really feel about y’all. From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much for the best times of my life. It was such an honor to put that Dubs jersey on from day one."
Klay Thompson's Farewell: An Era Ends for Golden State Warriors
Thompson acknowledged that his departure was not easy, but he emphasized the enduring bonds he formed during his time in Golden State. "I really just wanted to be the best I could be and help bring as many championships as possible to the region. The best part was not the rings though, it was the friendships I made that will last a lifetime."
Thompson's legacy as a Warrior will undoubtedly be cemented in the rafters of the Chase Center. His 2,481 three-pointers made are the sixth most ever, and he ranks as one of the most efficient shooters in NBA history. His impact on the franchise extends beyond his statistical accomplishments, as he was a beloved figure in the Bay Area community.
Klay Thompson's Farewell: An Era Ends for Golden State Warriors
With Thompson's departure, Stephen Curry now becomes the longest-tenured player on the Warriors' roster. Curry and Thompson's partnership has been the driving force behind Golden State's recent success, and their chemistry on and off the court was undeniable.
The Warriors will undoubtedly feel the void left by Thompson's departure, both on the court and in the locker room. However, they possess a talented core of young players led by Curry, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins, who are hungry to continue the dynasty that Thompson helped establish.
As Klay Thompson embarks on a new chapter in his career with the Dallas Mavericks, the Warriors will forever cherish the memories of their four championships and the unforgettable journey they shared with one of the greatest shooters the game has ever seen.
