The Golden State Warriors have confirmed they'll one day retire Klay Thompson's No. 11 jersey for his contributions to the franchise after the four-time champion left the Warriors after spending 13 years with them. The organization released a heartfelt statement for Klay , thanking the legend for everything he achieved for the franchise.
"We can't overstate Klay Thompson's incredible and legendary contributions with the Warriors during his 13 years with the team, highlighted by four (4) NBA Championships, six (6) trips to the NBA Finals, five (5) NBA All-Star Game appearances and several NBA records, including the most points ever scored in a quarter in NBA history (37) and the most 3-point field goals in a game (14)."
"The amount of joy and happiness that Klay provided Warriors fans, Bay Area natives, and Dub Nation supporters all around the world has been immense and cannot be minimized. His penchant for delivering in pressurized situations on the biggest stage, including many Game 6 heroics, has helped define a career. Klay's legacy will live on forever and we look forward to the day we can retire his #11 jersey at Chase Center, where he will join a host of Warriors immortals, including those who helped shape this recent dynasty— himself included."
"We thank Klay for his contributions and wish him the best as another chapter in his journey is written."
Klay averaged 17.9 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists last season, one of the worst scoring seasons of his career. He shot under 40% from three for the first time in his career, but still shot 38.7% on 9.0 attempts per game.
He will join the Mavericks after agreeing to a sign-and-trade which became a three-team deal with the Charlotte Hornets, who acquired Josh Green while Golden State received two second-round picks. His contract is worth $50 million over three seasons.
Thompson couldn't be the second star the Warriors needed anymore, facing a regression in abilities after his years of major injuries. However, his shooting numbers are still absolutely elite and would be incredible for the Mavericks as their system creates open threes for perimeter players such as Klay consistently.
Klay Thompson's Warriors' Tenure Ended With Drama
Klay Thompson didn't have a happy end to his formidable career with the Warriors. His final season was wrought with contract rumors while Thompson had the worst shooting season of his career. His worst shooting season was still good enough to be fourth on the season's total 3-pointers made chart, he couldn't be the co-star Stephen Curry needs to make the Warriors contend.
The energy from the franchise not honoring his past as a Warrior in light of his struggles caused Klay to become a negative asset in the Warriors' locking room .
"Klay has been equally as exhausting behind the scenes. It's not as loud. It's not as loud because it's not you stomping on someone’s chest. If he's slamming stuff on the bench and sulking, and doing that on the court, how do you think it is in practice? How do you think it is in the locker room? It has been uncomfortable. It has. It just doesn't come out as loudly as Draymond Green."
A fresh new start on the Mavericks where Kyrie Irving revitalized his career after a few tough seasons in the NBA might be exactly what Thompson needs. Hopefully, Klay can fit in behind Luka Doncic and Kyrie to be an electric tertiary scorer on the team that creates some of the best 3-point opportunities in the NBA.
Related: Lakers Wanted To Trade D'Angelo Russell In A Deal For Klay Thompson But Warriors Weren't Interested
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