Thompson’s Emotional Return to the Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO — Klay Thompson arrived at Chase Center without wanting any extravagant celebration. The heartfelt reception from approximately 400 Warriors staff members who welcomed him at the Dallas Mavericks’ team bus on Tuesday served as a poignant reminder of his legacy. As he walked toward the visitors’ locker room, the cheers echoed around him. The sailor caps, inspired by his love for boating, adorned everyone from Warriors owner Joe Lacob to the enthusiastic sellout crowd of 18,064, all united in honoring Thompson’s remarkable journey.

In a move that showcased their mutual respect, Stephen Curry’s pregame speech was scrapped after Thompson communicated his desire for simplicity the night before. The duo exchanged messages, leading to a consensus that less was more. Nevertheless, the Warriors were determined to commemorate Thompson’s significant contributions to their dynasty in an unforgettable manner. This reunion game, where the organization sought to celebrate 13 years filled with memories, turned out to be ironically bittersweet.

Golden State officials, striving to pay homage to Thompson’s storied past, faced a lukewarm reception that underscored the unresolved tensions surrounding his future. The perceived lack of respect regarding his contract situation was at the heart of their bitter separation. Absent a time machine to rewind to two summers ago — when Lacob made the decision to grant Draymond Green a four-year, $100 million contract, while Thompson’s situation received a different consideration — the wounds seemed likely to fester.

Despite the circumstances, Curry’s late-game surge thwarted Thompson’s plans for a personal redemption, as the Warriors triumphed 120-117. Curry’s stunning performance during the final moments left fans in awe. Still, it was evident that the atmosphere had shifted positively between Thompson and the Warriors. By the time Thompson addressed the media postgame, he had scored 22 points, including six three-pointers, although he must have felt a tinge of regret over a missed three-pointer that rimmed out with just 89 seconds remaining.

“It was a really cool experience,” Thompson reflected on the evening, which featured a heartfelt video tribute. “I appreciate the fans very much. The captain’s hat ended up being a great touch, since I’m such a passionate boater. I saw a lot of familiar faces in the crowd. That was a warm-hearted feeling. It was really cool to see fans expressing gratitude towards me, and it’s something I won’t take for granted. It’s very, very awesome.”

The pregame greeting from employees was especially meaningful, despite some in Thompson’s circle hoping it would be omitted like the Curry speech. Yet, as Thompson shared afterward, the gesture had a profound impact. “That was really cool,” he said. “I’m very grateful for the employees who showed me that kind of love. It was totally unexpected and definitely put a smile on my face. It’s something I’ll never forget.”

Regardless of the context, Thompson’s willingness to express warm sentiments towards the Warriors organization indicated a significant thaw in the previously icy relations. Their shared history transcended four championship titles, five All-Star appearances, and countless cherished moments. The bond between Klay and the Bay is too special to remain tarnished. While disagreements lingered over how his contract was handled — with Thompson feeling he deserved equal treatment to Green, while the Warriors cited his injury history as justification for their cautious approach — the affectionate postgame exchanges signaled a genuine reconciliation.

• Thompson shared a heartfelt hug with Warriors coach Steve Kerr.
• He was embraced by Stephen Curry, followed by longtime trainer Rick Celebrini.
• Andrew Wiggins, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Moses Moody, various staff members, and even Draymond Green joined in the emotional reunions.
• Former Warriors big man Zaza Pachulia and assistant coach Bruce Fraser were among those who greeted him.

It remains uncertain if Thompson connected with Lacob, but as the narrative of his post-Warriors saga evolves, such subtleties are becoming less significant. “The Warriors did an incredible job of honoring him,” remarked Mavericks coach Jason Kidd, a Bay Area native familiar with the local fanbase’s passion.

With a victory to celebrate alongside Thompson’s return, the Warriors improved to an unexpected 9-2 record. Anyone familiar with Thompson knows he likely struggled to sleep after the game. Curry’s 37-point performance overshadowed Thompson’s standout night, as No. 30 celebrated like it was a gold medal victory instead of an early November game. Thompson departed the court with a sense of gratitude, tossing his headband into the stands as he made his way through the tunnel, greeted by a long line of fans and supporters.

Former Warriors legend Andre Iguodala, who is now the executive director of the National Basketball Players Association, made a visit to the Mavericks locker room before the game and engaged in postgame conversations as well. Warriors executive vice president of basketball operations Kirk Lacob also sought to catch up with Thompson.

As Thompson reflected on the game, his thoughts shifted to the challenges ahead with the Mavericks, now sitting at 5-6. The trio of Luka Dončić, Kyrie Irving, and Thompson is still finding its rhythm in a highly competitive Western Conference. Looking ahead, Thompson stated, “We’ve had like four games this year that could have gone either way. This one really stung, being up seven (points) with four minutes left. We’ll watch the film and get better. But I am really proud of how this team keeps fighting. We’re still getting to know each other, and I keep telling the guys, it’s better to go through this stuff early in the season versus Game 60. So I know we have a chance to be great. We’ve just got to stay the course.”

Thompson’s past is filled with memories of transcendent performances that propelled the Warriors to NBA glory. The franchise cherishes those days and aims to ensure they remain unforgettable. If Tuesday night’s events were any indication, Thompson holds the same sentiment close to his heart.

(Photo: Ezra Shaw / Getty Images)