Klay Thompson is widely recognized as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history. Having been part of the famous “Splash Brothers” duo alongside Stephen Curry on the Golden State Warriors, Thompson played a significant role in redefining the NBA’s outlook on three-point shooting.
Although Klay Thompson has gained infamy after his breakup with American rapper Megan Thee Stallion, the veteran sharpshooter still has an incredible legacy as an NBA player. On that note, during a recent interview on “The School of Hard Knocks” with James Dumuolin, the four-time NBA champion opened up about different aspects of wealth, life, longevity, and faith.
Interviewer:Â “How old were you when you made your first million?”
Thompson:Â “I was 23 years old.”
Interviewer:Â “How did you get rich?”
Thompson:Â “I play a little basketball.”
After introducing himself, Klay Thompson was asked what the largest amount of money he made in a single year was. Although the veteran seemed hesitant to respond, he vaguely admitted to it being nearly $40 million. Following this, the interview continued:
Interviewer:Â “Did you come from money growing up?”
Thompson:Â “I did. My father was in the same line of business. I was lucky to have such a great role model in him.”
Interviewer:Â “You became one of the greats. Klay, what is your self-talk like when you’re out on that court? What do you tell yourself when you’re going up against some of the greatest players in the world?”
Thompson:Â “That’s a great question, because for me, I’m such a basketball player. I relate everything to the hardwood. You can miss 15 straight shots, but if you prepare like it’s your last game, or you want to be great, then you can live with the results. You’ve just got to talk to yourself positively.”
Interviewer:Â “When you were coming up, did you ever have people that doubted you?
Thompson:Â “Oh yeah, all the time. I was not a highly-touted or blue-chip recruit. Everyone’s path is different. You might not get the praise or adulation you got as a teenager. But it’s the long game you play.”
Interviewer:Â “Your longevity is admirable. The average athlete that goes pro, they don’t make it that long. What was the secret to your longevity?”
Thompson:Â “Because I love basketball so much, I would play basketball in my spare time just as much as I do for an occupation. That’s the secret, really. Hitting that fadeaway, saying ‘Kobe.’ That was my place of peace. I love this game more than anything in the world.”
Interviewer:Â “Do you believe in God?”
Thompson:Â “I do. I believe in a higher power.”
Interviewer:Â “Who is your God?”
Thompson:Â “The Holy Spirit… I grew up in the Catholic Church. I definitely believe in a higher power, and I believe in karma, because energy does come back around. I truly believe that.”
Interviewer:Â “Klay, if you and me died tomorrow and you could leave one more message right here with the younger generation, what would that be?”
Thompson:Â “Think of the big picture. Sometimes we all get bogged down and discouraged, go through an injury. There’s always a higher purpose for why you’re going through those times. Tough times don’t last, but tough people do. What really matters is your character. You can’t take your material value with you to the next life. So, the impact you make on others, that’s the real legacy that is left behind.”
Klay Thompson’s profound advice truly resonated with Dumuolin, who had to show appreciation to the veteran for his time and eloquence. From matters about success to deeper questions about the self and faith, Thompson touched on every topic, offering valuable food for thought to anyone watching.
Needless to say, Thompson’s advice echoes his own experiences. After quickly rising through the ranks of shooting guards in the league, the guard suffered major injuries, effectively throwing off his career trajectory.
Despite facing such hardships, Klay Thompson built himself back up and, in doing so, earned the respect of several basketball fans around the world. Given that he also played a vital role in helping Golden State lift the NBA trophy in 2022, it is safe to say that Thompson remained impactful even after facing setbacks.
Although Klay Thompson is now far removed from the player he was in his prime, the veteran sharpshooter remains a reliable presence on the roster. In theory, this would make him a solid locker room leader for a young team like the Dallas Mavericks, but rumors suggest the guard is working toward an exit.
As buyout negotiations with the Mavericks continue, Klay Thompson has garnered interest from teams such as the Miami Heat. With the Heat looking to add the sharpshooter to pair with their star-studded frontcourt of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo, it will certainly be intriguing to see how things play out in the coming days.
