Klay Thompson experienced a whirlwind of emotions leading up to his first preseason game with the Dallas Mavericks, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement after spending 13 seasons with the Golden State Warriors. Reflecting on his pre-game jitters, he compared the intensity to his feelings before Game 1 of the 2015 Finals.
Despite the nerves, Thompson was eager to hit the court and embrace this new chapter in his career, indicating that it felt “amazing” to finally don the Mavs’ uniform and participate in a new environment. In his debut, he scored 10 points in 18 minutes during a 107-102 loss to the Utah Jazz.
Thompson’s transition from the Warriors, where he played a pivotal role in securing four NBA championships alongside Stephen Curry, marked a significant shift for him. This offseason, he chose to join the Mavericks as a free agent, excited about the opportunity to start fresh and contribute to a new team. His first game in a Mavs uniform was not only an emotional milestone but also a symbolic moment in his career, reflecting his readiness to embrace change and new challenges.
In his debut, Thompson wore the number 31, a tribute to his childhood idol, Hall of Famer Reggie Miller. This number held historical significance in Dallas, previously worn by Jason Terry, who played a key role in the Mavericks’ championship run in 2011. Terry, now an assistant coach for the Jazz, expressed his approval of Thompson wearing his old number and emphasized the importance of making shots, stating that he believed Thompson would rise to the occasion and make a mark in Dallas.
During the game, the crowd at the American Airlines Center welcomed Thompson with enthusiasm as he joined the starting lineup. After a slow start, missing his first three shots, he settled into the game and scored his first basket early in the second quarter. This moment of scoring ignited his performance, where he ended up hitting three three-pointers. Mavericks coach Jason Kidd acknowledged the positives in Thompson’s game, appreciating his decision-making and ability to take good shots without rushing.
Looking ahead, Thompson mentioned feeling some tightness in his back but indicated he would be ready for the upcoming preseason game against the LA Clippers. Meanwhile, Luka Doncic, the Mavericks’ star player, missed both preseason games due to a calf contusion but might return for the final preseason game against the Milwaukee Bucks. As Thompson adjusts to his new team, both he and the Mavericks look forward to building chemistry and preparing for the regular season ahead.
