Following news of Klay Thompson’s breakup with the Golden State Warriors, longtime NBA veteran Draymond Green gave a candid statement on what he perceives as the end of a golden era.
“Thirteen years in the Bay, reportedly joining the Mavericks on a three-year, $50 million deal in a sign and trade. I must say, I don’t really know how I feel about it. Klay told us last week and we were just kinda talking through the years, he was talking about all we’ve done and how ‘you and Steph are my brothers forever.’ I was heading to my daughters recital so I wasn’t able to go as in-depth with the conversation as I would have. It changes nothing for us… but the relationships, they are what they are, they are forever. The connection, the bond, even as far as all of us being mentioned together. That is forever. I just haven’t really been able to process the feelings. Earlier today, I think I might have dropped a couple of tears or two.”
Stephen Curry posted a long and thought-out goodbye to Klay on his Instagram story and it was enough to invoke some strong feelings in the NBA community. For a trio of teammates who endured hardships together, won titles together, and made history together, nobody thought it would end like this.
Last season, after a miserable campaign that saw the Warriors finish 10th in the West, the franchise reached an all-time low and it became apparent that something needed to change. While Klay was not the one anyone imagined would leave, he was the odd man out after failing to come to terms on an agreement with the Warriors.
The legendary “big three” first began their run back in 2011. Klay was drafted 11th overall to the Warriors and he eventually became known as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. Paired with Steph and Draymond (an elite defensive swingman), Thompson thrived for the Warriors and helped lead them to prosperity in the West.
They won four titles during their run but nothing lasts forever. After suffering two major injuries, Thompson became a shell of his former self on the court and the Warriors couldn’t keep up with the competitive Western Conference. So when it came time to pay Klay this summer, they let him sign somewhere else instead of meeting his demands.
As tough as he portrays himself, even Draymond had no problem admitting how emotional this breakup has been for him and now it’s tough to see where the team goes without their prized and beloved championship core. Curry, Draymond, and whoever else they add, may be enough to keep things interesting but it will never be the same as it was with their big three and everyone knows it.
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