Klay Thompson's storied career with the Golden State Warriors is one of the most compelling in the annals of modern NBA history. After 13 seasons with the team, Thompson has solidified his legacy, not just with the four NBA championships he played a pivotal role in securing, but also with individual performances that left an indelible mark on the sport.
A Legacy of Remarkable Performances
One of Thompson's most memorable playoff performances came during Game 6 of the 2016 Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. With his team facing elimination, Thompson erupted for an incredible 41 points, including 22 in the fourth quarter alone. His shooting that night was nothing short of legendary; he set an NBA playoff record by draining 11 three-pointers.
Thompson's propensity for delivering when it matters most has earned him a special place in the hearts of Warriors fans. This sentiment was echoed after Game 6, as observers uniformly noted, "You knew immediately Thompson was hurt," referring to his ACL injury during the 2019 NBA Finals. Yet, in a remarkable display of grit, Thompson returned to the court to sink two free throws before hobbling off. Analysts saw this as "a statement about Thompson's confidence and character."
Historic Regular Season Feats
Thompson’s regular season feats are just as impressive. During a game in 2014 against the Sacramento Kings, he set an NBA record by scoring 37 points in a single quarter, making all 13 of his shots, including nine three-pointers. In another stunning display of efficiency, he scored 60 points against the Chicago Bulls in 2016 on just 11 dribbles. The ease with which he found space and his quick release underscored his elite level of play.
January 2019 saw Thompson providing another showcase of his shooting prowess, this time against the Los Angeles Lakers. He hit 10 consecutive three-pointers to start the game, finishing with 44 points on 17-of-20 shooting. Performances like these demonstrate why the Warriors plan to retire his No. 11 jersey—a tribute to a player who has given them so much to cheer about.
Resilience and Return
Thompson’s journey hasn’t been without its hurdles. The ACL tear he suffered in Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals sidelined him for two and a half years. His return on January 9, 2022, saw him score 17 points, a moment that encapsulated the joy and relief of not just Thompson but the entire Warriors' fanbase. Many observers noted how "Warriors fans appreciate Thompson even more after two years of struggle without him."
His comeback narrative reached another peak during the 2022 playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies, where he scored 30 points and hit eight three-pointers in Game 6, reinforcing his reputation as a clutch performer. Observers and fans alike would agree that "this performance certainly made Warriors fans appreciate Thompson even more."
A Career Worthy of Celebration
Throughout his career, Thompson has given Warriors fans unforgettable moments. Whether it’s the 2016 All-Star Weekend, where he won the 3-point contest by making his final eight shots, or the game against the New York Knicks where he scored 43 points on just four dribbles, Thompson has consistently delivered.
Perhaps one of the more humbling moments of his career came when he was removed from the starting lineup for the first time since his rookie year. Even so, he responded by scoring 35 points off the bench, a testament to his professionalism and work ethic.
As Thompson himself put it, "The time away made him appreciate the opportunity to compete for a championship and play on the biggest stages even more.” And for the fans, analysts, and teammates who have witnessed his journey, his career is nothing short of spectacular.
In an era defined by three-point shooting and highlight-reel performances, Klay Thompson remains one of the most influential and respected players in the NBA. His resilience, skill, and remarkable performances over more than a decade have cemented his place amongst the greats, and his No. 11 jersey will soon hang as a permanent reminder of his contributions to the Golden State Warriors.