The last decade of NBA basketball has seen some iconic moments, and few players have contributed as significantly to these highlights as Klay Thompson. The shooting guard, known for his deadly accuracy and calm demeanor under pressure, has left an indelible mark on the league, whether through record-breaking performances or his sheer will in the face of adversity.
A Storied Journey with the Warriors
Thompson's career with the Golden State Warriors has been nothing short of legendary. Over the course of 13 seasons, he helped the team secure four NBA championships, cementing his status as one of the greatest shooters in the history of the game. The Warriors have already announced plans to retire his No. 11 jersey, a fitting tribute to his contributions to the franchise.
Defining Performances
Highlights of Thompson's career are numerous. His performance in Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2016 remains a standout. Scoring 22 points in the fourth quarter and finishing with 41 points, Thompson's effort helped set an NBA playoff record with 11 three-pointers in that memorable game.
Two years earlier, Thompson set another record by scoring an astonishing 37 points in a single quarter against the Sacramento Kings. Making all 13 of his shots, including nine three-pointers, Thompson's feat remains unmatched. His scoring prowess was on full display once more in 2016 when he scored 60 points against the Chicago Bulls on just 11 dribbles, a testament to his efficiency and skill.
In January 2019, Thompson etched his name into the record books again by making 10 consecutive three-pointers to start a game against the Los Angeles Lakers. He finished that game with 44 points on an impressive 17-of-20 shooting performance.
Resiliency Personified
While his scoring feats are extraordinary, Thompson's resilience and toughness have also defined his career. In Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals, Thompson suffered a devastating ACL tear after being fouled by Danny Green. Despite the excruciating pain, Thompson managed to score 30 points in 32 minutes before his injury. Warriors fans and players alike were moved when he returned to the court, injured, to sink two free throws before leaving the game.
"You knew immediately Thompson was hurt," many observers noted. However, the shooting guard's determination was evident. "Somebody gets word to Thompson that if he doesn't shoot the two free throws, he cannot return to the game." True to his nature, Thompson not only sank the free throws but appeared ready to continue playing, "trying to flex his knee loose as he hobbles back on defense."
A Triumphant Return
Thompson's journey back to the court was arduous, taking two and a half years of recovery. On January 9, 2022, his return was nothing short of inspirational, as Thompson contributed 17 points to help the Warriors to a victory and a remarkable 30-9 record. "Warriors fans appreciate Thompson even more after two years of struggle without him," became a common sentiment.
Clutch Performances
In the 2022 playoffs, Thompson once again proved his clutch capabilities. In Game 6 against the Memphis Grizzlies, he scored 30 points and made eight three-pointers, prompting observers to say, "This performance certainly made Warriors fans appreciate Thompson even more." Thompson himself reflected on the moment, stating, "The time away made him appreciate the opportunity to compete for a championship and play on the biggest stages even more."
One of the more remarkable aspects of Thompson's career is his ability to score efficiently. In 2016, he won the 3-point contest during All-Star Weekend by making his final eight shots. That same year, he managed to score 43 points on just four dribbles against the New York Knicks, showcasing his unparalleled efficiency.
An Everlasting Legacy
It's not just Thompson's scoring that stands out but his character and poise under pressure. There was a notable game when he scored 35 points off the bench, having been removed from the starting lineup for the first time since his rookie year. Analysts commented, "A statement about Thompson's confidence and character."
Whether it's breaking records or bouncing back from injuries, Klay Thompson's career is a testament to his skill, resilience, and impact on the game. As the Golden State Warriors prepare to retire his jersey, fans and players alike reflect on an illustrious career that has etched itself into NBA history.