It is official: the Splash Brothers are no more. Klay Thompson has decided to sign a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks to join 2024 NBA Finalists Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. The Golden State Warriors have had tremendous success with Klay Thompson starting alongside superstar Stephen Curry, winning four NBA titles and changing the way basketball is played for good. With Thompson gone and the Warriors dynasty likely over, here are the 10 greatest moments of one-half of the Splash Brothers.
- 1. First Championship (2015)
- 2. 37-Point Quarter (2015)
- 3. Second Title (2017)
- 4. Game 6 Klay (2016)
- 5. Third Title (2018)
- 6. 60-Point Game (2016)
- 7. 14 Three-Pointers Game (2018)
- 8. Fourth Title (2022)
- 9. All-Star Three-Point Contest Champion (2016)
- 10. Helping The Warriors Complete An Iconic 73-Win Season In 2016
1. First Championship (2015)
Klay Thompson’s journey with the Golden State Warriors took a monumental turn during the 2014-15 NBA season. Making his first All-Star Team by averaging 21.7 points per game, his contributions were pivotal in leading the Warriors to their first championship in 40 years. Throughout the season, Thompson’s exceptional shooting (43.9%) and defensive prowess complemented Stephen Curry’s playmaking, creating one of the most formidable backcourts in NBA history.
In the Finals, the Warriors faced the Cleveland Cavaliers, and Klay’s consistent performances, including a crucial 34-point game in the Western Conference Finals, helped secure the title. Winning the first championship was not just a testament to Thompson’s skill but also to the Warriors’ transformation into a modern NBA powerhouse. Luckily, there would be more to come.
2. 37-Point Quarter (2015)
On January 23, 2015, Klay Thompson delivered one of the most memorable performances in NBA history, scoring 37 points in a single quarter against the Sacramento Kings (ending the game with 41 points). This explosive display of scoring included going 9-9 from three and 13-13 from the field overall. Klay’s remarkable shooting spree showcased his ability to get hot and dominate a game single-handedly, leaving fans and analysts in awe.
Thompson’s 37-point quarter was a testament to his incredible shooting mechanics and mental toughness because it isn’t easy to go perfect from the floor at this incredible usage. It not only set an NBA record but also highlighted his potential to take over games in a flash. It also gave a glimpse of how dominant the Golden State Warriors were as a dynasty.
3. Second Title (2017)
The 2016-17 NBA season saw the Golden State Warriors achieve another milestone with their second championship in three years. With the addition of Kevin Durant to the roster, the Warriors became an even more formidable force. Klay Thompson played a crucial role in this championship run, providing consistent scoring and elite defense throughout the season as he made his third straight All-Star Team and averaged 22.3 points per game. His ability to complement the offensive firepower of Curry and Durant was instrumental in the team’s success.
In the 2017 NBA Finals, the Warriors faced the Cleveland Cavaliers once again. Thompson’s defensive efforts, particularly his ability to guard multiple positions, were critical in containing the Cavaliers’ star-studded lineup. His clutch performances, including a 30-point game in the Western Conference Finals, underscored his importance to the team. Winning the second title further solidified Thompson’s legacy as one of the key architects of the Warriors dynasty.
4. Game 6 Klay (2016)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njanF2mUtZM
Klay Thompson’s nickname “Game 6 Klay” was earned during the 2016 Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Facing elimination, Thompson delivered an extraordinary performance, scoring 41 points and hitting 11 three-pointers, an NBA playoff record. His heroics helped the Warriors overcome a 3-1 series deficit and advance to the NBA Finals, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Thompson’s Game 6 performance was a testament to his mental toughness and clutch shooting and there was no doubt he was one equally valued member of the Splash Brothers. This game remains one of the most iconic moments in playoff history and a defining moment in Thompson’s career.
5. Third Title (2018)
The 2017-18 NBA season saw the Warriors capture their third championship in four years, further establishing their dominance in the league. Klay Thompson’s contributions were once again pivotal to the team’s success. Throughout the playoffs, Thompson provided consistent scoring, elite defense, and invaluable experience as he averaged 19.6 points per game on 42.7% from three in the postseason.
In the 2018 NBA Finals, the Warriors faced the Cleveland Cavaliers for the fourth consecutive year. Thompson’s defensive efforts against the Cavaliers’ backcourt, combined with his timely shooting, played a significant role in the Warriors’ sweep of the series. Winning the third title not only added to Thompson’s impressive resume but also reinforced the Warriors’ status as a modern-day dynasty.
6. 60-Point Game (2016)
On December 5, 2016, Klay Thompson delivered a historic performance by scoring 60 points in just 29 minutes against the Indiana Pacers. This remarkable feat showcased his scoring efficiency and ability to dominate a game offensively. Thompson’s performance included eight three-pointers in 14 attempts and highlighted his skill in scoring from all areas of the court. His 60-point game remains one of the most impressive individual performances in NBA history.
Thompson’s 60-point game was a testament to his scoring prowess and ability to get hot quickly. His efficiency and scoring explosion captivated fans and added another highlight to his illustrious career and the player hasn’t had a better all-around offensive performance in terms of points scored.
7. 14 Three-Pointers Game (2018)
On October 29, 2018, Klay Thompson set an NBA record by making 14 three-pointers in a single game against the Chicago Bulls. His record-breaking performance surpassed the previous mark held by his teammate Stephen Curry. Thompson’s incredible shooting display resulted in 52 points in just 27 minutes, further establishing his reputation as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.
Thompson’s 14 three-pointers game highlighted his shooting mechanics and ability to get into an unstoppable rhythm. This performance not only set an NBA record but also showcased the Warriors’ offensive firepower. Stephen Curry, Zach LaVine, and Damian Lillard are tied for second place with 13 three-pointers made.
8. Fourth Title (2022)
The 2021-22 NBA season marked a triumphant return for Klay Thompson after missing two consecutive seasons due to injuries. His resilience and determination culminated in the Warriors winning their fourth championship in eight years. Thompson’s contributions were crucial in the playoffs, providing scoring, defense, and leadership because the player posted 19.0 points per game on 38.5% in the postseason.
His return to the court and subsequent championship victory were emotional moments for both him and the Warriors’ fans. Thompson’s fourth title was a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the game. Overcoming significant injuries and returning to championship form highlighted his resilience and love for basketball.
9. All-Star Three-Point Contest Champion (2016)
Klay Thompson showcased his elite shooting skills by winning the Three-Point Contest at the 2016 NBA All-Star Weekend. His victory over Stephen Curry in the final round highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and reaffirmed his status as one of the league’s premier shooters. Thompson’s win in the contest was a proud moment in his career and a testament to his shooting excellence.
Winning the Three-Point Contest was a significant achievement for Thompson, as it demonstrated his shooting prowess on a national stage. His ability to outshoot some of the best marksmen in the league added another accolade to his resume and further solidified his reputation as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.
10. Helping The Warriors Complete An Iconic 73-Win Season In 2016
The 2015-16 NBA season was historic for the Golden State Warriors, as they set a new NBA record with 73 regular-season wins, surpassing the previous record of 72 wins set by the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls. Klay Thompson played a crucial role in this achievement, consistently delivering outstanding performances throughout the season.
His sharpshooting, defensive capabilities, and ability to complement Stephen Curry’s play were pivotal in the Warriors’ relentless pursuit of excellence. Thompson’s contributions were not limited to his scoring; his defensive assignments often involved guarding the opponent’s best perimeter players. Thompson ended the season averaging 22.1 points per game on 42.5% from three while making the All-Star Team and second-straight All-NBA (Third) Team Selection.
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