Klay Thompson Reflects Honestly on First Season with Mavericks: “A Journey of Growth”
When the Dallas Mavericks signed four-time NBA champion Klay Thompson last offseason, fans were buzzing with excitement. Known for his lethal shooting, clutch performances, and championship pedigree, expectations were high for what Thompson could bring to a young, talented Mavericks roster. Now, as the regular season closes, the veteran guard has offered a sincere and thoughtful reflection on his first year in Dallas — and he’s not sugarcoating it.
“It Wasn’t Perfect, But It Was Real.”
Sitting down after a late-season practice, Thompson opened up about the challenges, the triumphs, and the process of adapting to a new city, a new system, and a new role.
“Truthfully? I’d give myself a B-minus,” Thompson said with a half-smile. “There were flashes of the old me — the nights I felt like I couldn’t miss — but also stretches where I had to adjust, both mentally and physically.”
It’s rare to hear such humility from a player with his résumé, but that’s part of what has made Thompson a respected figure in NBA circles. He acknowledged that the transition from the Golden State Warriors, where he spent over a decade and won four titles, to Dallas wasn’t always smooth.
Finding His Rhythm
Early in the season, Thompson grappled with consistency. After two injury-riddled years and a limited role in Golden State’s final season with him, finding rhythm and flow took time.
“There were nights I questioned myself. You don’t spend ten years in one place and just flip a switch. But this team believed in me — Luka, Coach Kidd, the guys — they had my back.”
Indeed, Thompson became a steadying presence in the locker room and on the court. He may not have put up All-Star numbers every night, but his experience and leadership shone in crucial moments. He averaged solid shooting splits and made his impact felt especially in tight, playoff-positioning games.
Embracing the Mentor Role
Klay also embraced a role he hadn’t always worn: mentor. Playing alongside young talents like Luka Dončić and Jaden Hardy, Thompson’s voice became a guiding one.
“I see so much of my younger self in these guys. The hunger, the drive. It’s been a privilege to pass on what I’ve learned. That’s growth — not just as a player, but as a person.”
Looking Ahead
With the Mavericks poised to make a playoff run, Thompson knows his real value may show most when it matters — in the postseason.
“I’m not here for stats. I’m here to win. And when the lights are brightest, that’s when I show up. That’s who I’ve always been.”
As Dallas eyes a deep playoff push, fans can rest assured: Klay Thompson may grade himself modestly, but his presence has already left a meaningful mark. A B-minus season by his standards might just be the A-plus leadership the Mavericks needed.
