The Golden State Warriors and their fans are bidding a heartfelt farewell to one of the franchise’s most iconic players, Klay Thompson. The 34-year-old sharpshooter has agreed to a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, marking the end of an illustrious 11-season run with the Warriors. As we say goodbye, we reflect on the incredible partnership between Klay Thompson and Stephen Curry, known famously as the “Splash Brothers.”
The Birth of the Splash Brothers
When Klay Thompson joined the Golden State Warriors in 2011, he quickly formed a dynamic duo with Stephen Curry. Together, they revolutionized the game of basketball with their extraordinary three-point shooting. The nickname “Splash Brothers” became synonymous with their ability to sink long-range shots with remarkable accuracy.
Dominating the NBA
Over their years together, Thompson and Curry led the Warriors to unprecedented success. Their combined shooting prowess and on-court chemistry were key factors in the Warriors’ dominance. Thompson’s 41% career three-point shooting percentage, alongside Curry’s, made the duo one of the most feared backcourts in NBA history.
Historic Achievements
Thompson and Curry’s partnership resulted in five All-Star appearances for Thompson and multiple championship runs. The duo’s most notable achievement came in 2015 when they led the Warriors to their first NBA championship in 40 years. They followed this up with three more titles in 2017, 2018, and 2022, solidifying their legacy as one of the greatest backcourt pairings in the history of NBA.
Memorable Moments
Throughout their time together, Thompson and Curry created countless memorable moments. Who can forget Thompson’s record-breaking 37-point quarter against the Sacramento Kings or his 11 three-pointers in a single NBA Finals game? These moments, combined with Curry’s heroics, provided Warriors fans with unforgettable experiences.
Overcoming Adversity
The Splash Brothers’ journey was not without challenges. Thompson’s injuries, including a torn left ACL and a ruptured right Achilles, kept him out for the entire 2019-20 and 2020-21 seasons. However, his determination to return to form and his successful comeback in the 2021-22 season tested his resilience and dedication. Thompson and Curry helped lead the Warriors to a redemptive title in 2022.
A Changing Role
As Thompson adapted to changes in his game, his workload decreased. His usage rate fell to 24.2%, and he attempted 14.7 shots per game—the fewest since his rookie season. He also averaged fewer than 30 minutes per game for the first time in his career. Despite these adjustments, Thompson still averaged 17.9 points per game despite his inconsistent performance.
Farewell to a Legendary Duo
The Golden State Warriors and their fans will always cherish Klay Thompson’s incredible contributions and the unique partnership he shared with Stephen Curry. Their on-court synergy, relentless work ethic, and championship pedigree have left an indelible mark on the franchise. As Thompson embarks on a new journey with the Dallas Mavericks, Warriors fans can look back on the Splash Brothers era with pride and gratitude.
A New Beginning for Klay Thompson
Joining the Dallas Mavericks, Thompson brings veteran experience and elite shooting to a team looking to make a deep playoff run. His ability to space the floor and hit clutch shots will be invaluable to the Mavericks’ offense. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Thompson adapts to his new role and contributes to his new team.
Klay Thompson’s move to the Dallas Mavericks marks the end of a significant chapter in Golden State Warriors history. As we bid farewell to one half of the Splash Brothers, the memories of Thompson and Curry’s spectacular performances and the championships they secured will forever remain in the hearts of Warriors fans. Thank you, Klay, for all the unforgettable moments and for being a true Warrior.
