Klay Thompson Returns to Chase Center
A Hero’s Welcome
Klay Thompson exited the team bus, beaming as he strolled back into Chase Center on Tuesday night, greeted by some 400 cheering Warriors employees who lined up along his path to the Dallas locker room to show their love and appreciation for the former Golden State star.
A Tribute to a Legend
Those white hats filled Chase Center, where video highlights of Thompson showed in a place where he’s still beloved — and always will be. Stephen Curry jogged up to Thompson, now wearing No. 31 with teammate Kyrie Irving in No. 11, and offered a quick embrace before Andrew Wiggins also hugged his old teammate.
The Game
Earlier, after a brief jump-rope routine outside the Mavericks’ locker room, Thompson ran out the tunnel and onto the floor to thunderous applause from Warriors fans with phones up to capture the moment of Thompson’s return. Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Curry had considered addressing the crowd before tipoff but spoke with Thompson and they decided to each focus on the game.
A New Chapter
Thompson has tried to downplay the magnitude of being back in the Bay Area, though it certainly was emotional for everybody involved. "I’ve been doing this a long time, and basketball is basketball," he said. But when the home crowd went crazy and tipped those captain hats when he was introduced, Thompson became visibly emotional and clearly touched by the tribute.
Coach’s Perspective
"We wished that this had gone forever, that Klay would have finished his career with us but circumstances always dictate these things," Kerr said. "In the end I think he made the right choice. I think he needed a fresh start, I think he needed kind of a new set of surroundings and that was apparent last year. He was not happy and that was hard to see, because he deserves to be happy. At his core he’s a very happy person."
Conclusion
Thompson’s return to Chase Center marked a special night for the Warriors and their fans. Despite the emotional goodbye, Thompson’s legacy will always be remembered in the Bay Area. His contributions to the franchise and his tradition of boating across the bay to games will never be forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Klay Thompson leave the Golden State Warriors?
A: Thompson left the Warriors in July on a three-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks.
Q: What did Thompson overcome during his career?
A: Thompson overcame injuries, including surgeries on his left knee and right Achilles tendon, and missed more than 2 1/2 years recovering.
Q: How did Warriors coach Steve Kerr feel about Thompson’s return?
A: Kerr said it would be a different vibe, more of a thank you and a goodbye, and that it would feel strange but special.
Q: What did Thompson say about his return to the Bay Area?
A: Thompson downplayed the magnitude of being back in the Bay Area, saying "I’ve been doing this a long time, and basketball is basketball."
