A Break-Up in the Bay
Where were you when the news broke that Zayn left One Direction? What about when NSYNC broke up? We all remember the exact time, place, and emotions during those shocking moments. NBA fans, especially those loyal to Golden State, are currently having the same experience. The sadness, confusion, and anger we felt during those departures is how the many Brads and Chads of the NBA feel now.
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In a shocking split this NBA offseason, Klay Thompson, star shooting guard for the Golden State Warriors, signed a 3-year, $50 million contract with the Dallas Mavericks. Klay entered this offseason as a free agent, meaning the Warriors could resign him, or another team could sign him. Klay’s departure shocked many, as he spent 13 years at Golden State, winning four rings and creating lifelong friendships. The move is “tearing up the hearts” of millions.
Klay Thompson's time in San Francisco was truly remarkable. He played a key role in the team's four NBA Championships, including winning back-to-back titles in the 2017/2018 seasons. He also made six appearances in the NBA Finals and was selected for the all-star game five times. This achievement is basically like NSYNC's eight Grammy nominations, three American Music Award wins, five Billboard Music Awards, and seven MTV Video Music Awards.
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Aside from his success on the court, Klay established a strong connection to the Bay Area, especially with Steph Curry. The pair, known as the “Splash Brothers,” were a dominant force on the court and also shared a heartwarming friendship off the court. When asked about Klay’s move to Dallas, Steph expressed, “It’s tough. It’s something I never imagined would become a reality.” Curry served as a mentor to Klay, having been drafted in 2009, just two years before Klay. They built their careers together, setting numerous records. Steph and Klay had a 15-minute phone conversation before the news became public. Although not much has been revealed about the call, it was likely emotional and bittersweet. Once the news broke, Steph took to his Instagram story to express his love for Klay, “Even though we won’t finish the journey together, what we did will never be done again.”
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Draymond Green, drafted in 2012, was also central to the team’s success and the formation of the brotherhood. This trio became the face of the NBA for multiple seasons due to their support for one another and flow on the court. The band in Golden State was finally completed in 2014 after Steve Kerr joined as the head coach. Kerr brought a new energy to the Bay Area, igniting a fire for Klay, Steph, and Draymond to create a dynasty. Steve Kerr, also the USA Men’s Olympic Basketball Team coach, gave his thoughts on Klay: “We wish Klay well, but we love him and we’ll miss him. Klay’s going to have a statue outside Chase someday, he’ll be beloved by his teammates and coaches and our fans forever.”
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It is safe to say that these four have a whole lot of “history” together. While the coaches, players, and fans of Golden State never wanted to say “Bye, Bye, Bye” to Klay, the move feels necessary. Klay is ready for a new beginning. He details his decision, “I'm very grateful for my time at Golden State, but I just felt like moving on could just re-energize me, and do something special for the rest of my career.” Klay’s departure should remind us all just how fast the “Night Changes.” Klay’s new “Home” in Dallas is sure to be a success, as he joins Mavs stars Kyrie Irving and Luka Doncic. We anxiously await the reunion between Klay and the Warriors this upcoming season!