Klay Thompson changed the modern NBA with his shooting!
It’s official: The Splash Brothers are no more! Klay Thompson has signed a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, joining 2024 NBA Finalists Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Thompson had tremendous success with the Golden State Warriors alongside superstar Stephen Curry, winning four NBA titles and revolutionising the game. With Thompson's departure, the Warriors' dynasty appears to be coming to an end. Here are the greatest moments from one half of the Splash Brothers.
Klay Thompson's journey with the Golden State Warriors took a monumental turn during the 2014-15 NBA season. He made his first All-Star Team by averaging 21.7 points per game, playing a crucial role in leading the Warriors to their first championship in 40 years. Thompson's exceptional shooting (43.9%) and defensive skills complemented Stephen Curry's playmaking, forming one of the most formidable backcourts in NBA history. In the Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers, his consistent performances, including a vital 34-point game in the Western Conference Finals, assured the Warriors' transformation into a modern NBA powerhouse. This championship marked just the beginning of Thompson's legacy.
On January 23, 2015, Klay Thompson delivered one of the most unforgettable performances in NBA history, scoring 37 points in a single quarter against the Sacramento Kings, finishing the game with 41 points. His incredible display included going 9-for-9 from three and 13-for-13 overall from the field. This remarkable shooting spree demonstrated his ability to dominate a game single-handedly, leaving fans and analysts in awe. Thompson's perfect quarter showcased his elite shooting mechanics and mental toughness, setting an NBA record and highlighting his potential to take over games, reflecting the dominance of the Golden State Warriors during their dynasty.
Klay Thompson's nickname, "Game 6 Klay" was earned during the 2016 Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Facing elimination, he delivered an extraordinary performance, scoring 41 points and hitting 11 three-pointers, setting an NBA playoff record. His heroics helped the Warriors overcome a 3-1 series deficit and advance to the NBA Finals, showing his ability to rise to the occasion. Thompson's Game 6 performance exemplified his mental toughness and clutch shooting, proving he was an equally valued member of the Splash Brothers. This iconic game remains one of the most memorable moments in playoff history and a defining moment in Thompson's career.
On December 5, 2016, Klay Thompson delivered a historic performance, scoring 60 points in just 29 minutes against the Indiana Pacers. This remarkable feat proved his scoring efficiency and ability to dominate offensively, including eight three-pointers on 14 attempts. Thompson's 60-point game remains one of the most impressive individual performances in NBA history. It highlighted his scoring brilliance and ability to heat up quickly, captivating fans and adding another highlight to his illustrious career. To this day, it stands as his best all-around offensive performance in terms of points scored, affirming his legacy in the league.
On October 29, 2018, Klay Thompson set an NBA record by making 14 three-pointers in a single game against the Chicago Bulls, surpassing the previous mark held by teammate Stephen Curry. Thompson's incredible performance resulted in 52 points in just 27 minutes, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. This record-breaking game highlighted his exceptional shooting mechanics and ability to find an unstoppable rhythm. Thompson's achievement not only set an NBA record but also showed the Warriors' offensive firepower, with Stephen Curry, Zach LaVine, and Damian Lillard tied for second place with 13 three-pointers made.
In his time with the Warriors, Thompson turned the franchise around along with Stephen Curry, and Draymond Green. As a result, Golden State became the only home-grown dynasty in the modern NBA!