NBA homecomings never fail to stir up emotions, and Klay Thompson’s recent return to the Warriors’ court with the Dallas Mavericks is no exception. Fans packed the Chase Center to celebrate one of their all-time favorites, greeting Klay with roaring applause and a heartfelt video tribute. Moments like these remind us of the deep connection between players and their fans—an unbreakable bond formed through championships, unforgettable plays, and years of loyalty.
- 1. Klay Thompson’s Return To The Bay
- 2. LeBron James’ Homecoming To Cleveland With The Lakers
- 3. Kawhi Leonard’s Return To Toronto
- 4. The Return Of Chicago’s Favorite Son
- 5. Kyle Lowry’s Unforgettable Homecoming In The North
- 6. Toronto Welcomed DeMar DeRozan Back With Open Arms
- 7. Isaiah Thomas Felt The Love From Boston Fans
- 8. Blake Griffin Brought The Show Back To LA
- 9. Marc Gasol’s Memphis Reunion
- 10. Tony Parker’s Farewell To San Antonio
In the past decade, we’ve witnessed some unforgettable returns to old stomping grounds. Whether it was LeBron’s monumental return to Cleveland in a Lakers jersey or Dwyane Wade’s emotional Miami reunion, these moments have become legendary. Let’s take a look back at some of the most emotional player homecomings to their former teams in recent NBA history.
1. Klay Thompson’s Return To The Bay
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9WS4ps_Ci8
Klay Thompson’s departure from the Golden State Warriors marked the end of an era in the Bay. After 13 unforgettable seasons, four NBA championships, and forming one of the most iconic backcourts in history with Stephen Curry, Klay made a surprising move to the Dallas Mavericks in a big sign-and-trade deal in July. For Warriors fans, it was a bittersweet goodbye to one of their all-time favorites and a core piece of their dynasty.
Fast forward to November 12, 2024, and Klay was back at the Chase Center—only this time, in a Mavericks jersey. The Warriors rolled out the red carpet for their former star, showing a heartfelt tribute video that highlighted everything from his insane three-pointers to his famous boat rides to the arena. Fans greeted him with a standing ovation, many wearing captain’s hats as a nod to his love of the water.
On the court, Klay didn’t disappoint. He dropped 22 points, sinking six three-pointers in classic “Splash Brother” fashion. Despite his best efforts, though, the Mavericks fell just short, losing 120-117 to Golden State. Stephen Curry stole the show in the final minutes, putting up 37 points and rallying the Warriors with a 12-point burst to close out the game.
It was a night full of nostalgia and respect, with Klay and the Warriors’ faithful showing that some bonds are unbreakable—no matter the jersey.
2. LeBron James’ Homecoming To Cleveland With The Lakers
When LeBron James returned to Cleveland in a Los Angeles Lakers jersey for the first time on November 21, 2018, it was a big night for Cavs fans. The crowd at Quicken Loans Arena (now Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse) was buzzing, not just because LeBron was back but because of everything he’d meant to the city and the franchise. After all, LeBron wasn’t just any former player—he was the hometown hero who brought Cleveland its first NBA championship in 2016, ending a 52-year title drought.
The Cavaliers didn’t hold back in showing their appreciation. Before the game, they played a heartfelt video tribute showcasing some of LeBron’s most iconic moments, from buzzer-beaters to his legendary Finals performances. Fans rose to their feet, cheering and applauding as “King James” acknowledged them, clearly moved by the response.
LeBron, of course, delivered a memorable performance, scoring 32 points, grabbing 14 rebounds, and dishing out 7 assists. The Lakers ultimately won the game 109-105, but for Cleveland fans, it was more about the celebration of his legacy than the final score.
This homecoming captured everything about LeBron’s complex relationship with Cleveland: pride, respect, and a legacy that transcends any one game or season.
3. Kawhi Leonard’s Return To Toronto
On December 11, 2019, Kawhi Leonard made his highly anticipated return to Toronto as a member of the Los Angeles Clippers. Just months earlier, Leonard had led the Raptors to their first-ever NBA championship, earning Finals MVP honors for his stellar performance. His departure in the offseason left a significant impact on the franchise and its fans.
As Leonard stepped onto the Scotiabank Arena court, the Raptors honored him with a heartfelt tribute video, highlighting his pivotal moments during the championship run, including the iconic buzzer-beater against the Philadelphia 76ers. The crowd responded with a standing ovation, expressing their gratitude for his contributions to the team’s success.
In the game, Leonard showcased his skills, scoring 23 points, grabbing 6 rebounds, and dishing out 5 assists, leading the Clippers to a 112-92 victory over the Raptors. His performance was a reminder of the talent that had brought a championship to Toronto.
This return was more than just a game; it was a celebration of Leonard’s legacy in Toronto and the indelible mark he left on the franchise and its fans.
4. The Return Of Chicago’s Favorite Son
Derrick Rose’s first return to the United Center as a member of the New York Knicks on November 4, 2016, was a night filled with emotion for both Rose and Chicago fans. The hometown hero, who had won the NBA MVP award in 2011 and led the Bulls to multiple playoff runs, had been the face of the franchise before injuries changed the course of his career. His trade to the Knicks in 2016 left fans with mixed feelings, but there was no doubt he would always be cherished in Chicago.
When Rose stepped onto the court that night, Bulls fans gave him a heartfelt standing ovation, a tribute to everything he’d done for the team and the city. The Bulls also honored him with a video tribute that showcased his explosive drives, clutch plays, and iconic highlights, reminding everyone of the electrifying player he had been in his prime.
In the game, Rose scored 15 points, along with 11 assists and 7 rebounds, showing flashes of his former self. Though the Knicks lost to the Bulls, 104-117, it was a memorable night where the spotlight was firmly on Rose, as fans in Chicago celebrated his legacy and his journey.
For Rose and the Bulls, this homecoming was a touching reminder that, despite the ups and downs, Chicago would always have love for “D-Rose.”
5. Kyle Lowry’s Unforgettable Homecoming In The North
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGRjtyq_v2c
Kyle Lowry’s return to Scotiabank Arena on April 3, 2022, as a member of the Miami Heat was a momentous occasion for Raptors fans. As the heart and soul of the Raptors for nearly a decade, Lowry had led Toronto to its first NBA championship in 2019 and became the undisputed “Greatest Raptor of All Time” in the eyes of many fans. His departure to Miami in 2021 left a void, but the bond between Lowry and Toronto remained unbreakable.
When Lowry stepped onto the court, Raptors fans greeted him with an overwhelming ovation. The team prepared an emotional tribute video filled with highlights from his years in Toronto—everything from clutch threes to iconic celebrations that had defined his legacy. Fans cheered, some with tears in their eyes, showing their appreciation for everything Lowry had done for the city and the franchise.
On the stat sheet, Lowry put up a well-rounded performance with 16 points, 6 assists, and 10 rebounds. While the Heat ultimately lost to the Raptors, 114-109, the night was less about the game’s outcome and more about celebrating Lowry’s impact on Toronto basketball.
Lowry’s return to Toronto was a powerful reminder of the loyalty and passion he brought to the Raptors, and the fans’ response showed that, to them, he would always be a Raptor at heart.
6. Toronto Welcomed DeMar DeRozan Back With Open Arms
DeMar DeRozan’s first game back in Toronto as a San Antonio Spur on February 22, 2019, was packed with emotion and respect. After nine seasons with the Raptors, DeRozan was traded in a surprising move that brought Kawhi Leonard to Toronto—a move that ultimately led the Raptors to their first-ever championship. Despite the trade, DeRozan remained a fan favorite, and his connection to the city and fans never wavered.
The Raptors honored him with a heartfelt video tribute showcasing his dedication, memorable dunks, and loyalty to the franchise. As the video played, fans rose to their feet, giving him a long, standing ovation that made it clear how much he still meant to Toronto. DeRozan acknowledged the crowd with a wave, visibly moved by the response.
In the game, DeRozan put up a solid performance, scoring 23 points along with 8 assists. Though the Spurs ultimately lost to the Raptors, 120-117, the night was about more than just basketball; it was about the unbreakable bond DeRozan shared with Toronto and its fans.
This homecoming was a powerful reminder that, in Toronto, DeMar DeRozan will always be seen as a Raptor for life.
7. Isaiah Thomas Felt The Love From Boston Fans
Isaiah Thomas’s return to the TD Garden on March 18, 2019, as a Denver Nugget was a special moment for Boston fans. During his two-and-a-half seasons with the Celtics, Thomas became a beloved figure, known for his grit and clutch performances, particularly during the 2016-2017 season when he led Boston to the Eastern Conference Finals while battling personal adversity. Despite being traded in a deal that brought Kyrie Irving to Boston, Thomas’s connection with Celtics fans remained strong.
As he entered the court, the Celtics honored Thomas with a video tribute highlighting his unforgettable moments in green, from fourth-quarter heroics to his memorable 53-point game in the playoffs. Fans erupted in cheers, giving him a standing ovation as he waved to the crowd, visibly emotional.
Thomas didn’t play much that night, scoring just a few points in limited minutes. But the game itself was secondary; this was a night for fans and player alike to relive those special moments together. Thomas’s return was a reminder that, no matter where his career took him, he’d always have a place in Boston’s heart.
8. Blake Griffin Brought The Show Back To LA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4y2fSrbuP3c
Blake Griffin’s first game back at the Staples Center on January 12, 2019, as a member of the Detroit Pistons was a bittersweet night for Los Angeles Clippers fans. After spending eight seasons as the face of the “Lob City” era, Griffin had been unexpectedly traded in 2018. Though the move came as a shock, the connection between Griffin and the Clippers fanbase remained strong.
The Clippers paid tribute to Griffin with a video that showcased some of his most electrifying moments in LA—dunks, alley-oops, and his unforgettable athleticism. Fans greeted him with loud cheers, honoring the player who had transformed the team’s image and brought excitement to the franchise.
Griffin responded with a standout performance, scoring 44 points, grabbing 8 rebounds, and leading the Pistons to a 109-104 win over the Clippers. Though it was an intense game, the night was more about acknowledging Griffin’s legacy with the Clippers and the joy he had brought to LA.
Griffin’s return to Staples Center was a chance for fans to celebrate the player who helped redefine Clippers basketball, and for Blake to show once again that he could still bring the energy, no matter the jersey.
9. Marc Gasol’s Memphis Reunion
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cF-rA2ZqUzw
On January 3, 2021, Marc Gasol returned to the FedEx Forum, this time in a Lakers jersey, to face off against the Memphis Grizzlies—the team where he’d built his legacy over 11 incredible seasons. During his time in Memphis, Gasol was more than just a player; he was a three-time All-Star, the 2013 NBA Defensive Player of the Year, and a key figure in the beloved “Grit and Grind” era that defined the team’s identity.
The Grizzlies honored him with a touching video tribute, packed with highlights of his game-winning plays, dominant defense, and moments of pure passion. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the arena was mostly empty, but the respect for Gasol was loud and clear.
In the game, Gasol put up a solid stat line of 7 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists in 24 minutes, helping the Lakers grab a 108-94 win over the Grizzlies. It wasn’t about the numbers, though; it was about the reunion. Memphis fans couldn’t be there to cheer him on in person, but for Gasol and everyone watching, the night was a beautiful reminder of the mark he left on the city and the love that remains.
10. Tony Parker’s Farewell To San Antonio
Tony Parker’s return to San Antonio on January 14, 2019, as a member of the Charlotte Hornets was a rare and emotional homecoming. After spending 17 seasons with the Spurs, winning four championships, and establishing himself as one of the greatest point guards in franchise history, Parker’s departure was a shock to fans who had watched him from the beginning. This game marked the first and only time Parker would play against the Spurs on their home court.
The Spurs honored him with a tribute video, filled with highlights of his unforgettable career in San Antonio—clutch shots, Finals MVP moments, and his legendary chemistry with Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili. The crowd responded with a standing ovation that lasted several minutes, celebrating the player who had been instrumental in building the Spurs’ legacy.
Though Parker had a quiet game in terms of stats, the night was all about honoring his legacy. For fans and the Spurs organization, seeing Parker in another jersey was bittersweet, but the love and respect were undeniable. His return was a fitting send-off, allowing San Antonio to show just how much Tony Parker meant to the city and the franchise.
