Klay Thompson's career with the Golden State Warriors has been nothing short of legendary. Over 13 successful seasons, Thompson has been a pivotal figure in the team's triumphs, helping them secure four NBA championships. As a testament to his impact, the Golden State Warriors plan to retire his No. 11 jersey, ensuring his legacy remains etched in the annals of the franchise’s history.
A Career Filled with Historic Performances
Thompson's career is adorned with numerous standout performances. One of the most memorable came during the 2016 Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. In Game 6, with the Warriors facing elimination, Thompson scored an astounding 22 points in the fourth quarter, finishing the game with 41 points. He also set an NBA playoff record by sinking 11 three-pointers, a feat that not only kept the Warriors’ championship hopes alive but also left fans and analysts in awe.
Another highlight of Thompson’s illustrious career was his 37-point quarter against the Sacramento Kings in 2014, where he made all 13 of his shots, including nine three-pointers. Such an extraordinary display of shooting prowess solidified his reputation as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.
In 2016, Thompson showcased his efficiency by scoring 60 points against the Chicago Bulls on just 11 dribbles. A few years later, in January 2019, he exhibited his shooting accuracy by making 10 consecutive three-pointers to start a game against the Los Angeles Lakers, concluding that game with 44 points on 17-of-20 shooting from the field.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
Thompson's career has not been without its challenges. In Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals, he suffered a devastating ACL tear. Displaying his determination and warrior spirit, Thompson scored 30 points in just 32 minutes before the injury. Remarkably, he returned to sink two free throws after the injury, even as he was visibly in pain, "trying to flex his knee loose as he hobbles back on defense."
Observers at the time noted, "You knew immediately Thompson was hurt," and were equally struck by his resilience when "somebody gets word to Thompson that if he doesn't shoot the two free throws, he cannot return to the game." His fight to stay on the court highlighted what many analysts described as "a statement about Thompson's confidence and character."
The path to recovery was long and arduous, taking two and a half years. During this time, the Warriors struggled without him, only reinforcing the appreciation of his significance to the team. Common sentiment among Warriors fans echoed that "Warriors fans appreciate Thompson even more after two years of struggle without him."
The Triumphant Return
Thompson made his much-anticipated return on January 9, 2022, scoring 17 points in his first game back. It was a moment that illustrated both his talent and his unwavering dedication to the game. Thompson echoed this sentiment, saying, "The time away made him appreciate the opportunity to compete for a championship and play on the biggest stages even more."
In the 2022 playoffs, Thompson once again demonstrated his clutch abilities. In Game 6 against the Memphis Grizzlies, he scored 30 points and made eight three-pointers, proving that he was still a vital asset to the Warriors' championship aspirations.
More Than a Shooter
Thompson’s skill set extends beyond his shooting prowess. In 2016, he won the 3-point contest during All-Star Weekend by making his final eight shots, further establishing his reputation. He also demonstrated his efficiency against the New York Knicks, scoring 43 points on just four dribbles.
His adaptability was on display when he was removed from the starting lineup for the first time since his rookie year. Thompson responded by scoring 35 points off the bench, showcasing his ability to make significant contributions regardless of his role.
Klay Thompson's journey with the Golden State Warriors is a narrative of excellence, resilience, and unwavering commitment. As the franchise looks ahead to the future, the plan to retire his No. 11 jersey serves as a fitting tribute to a player who has given his all for the team and its fans. "This performance certainly made Warriors fans appreciate Thompson even more," and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.