After 13 unforgettable seasons, Klay Thompson’s run with the Golden State Warriors officially came to an end in July 2024. The five-time All-Star and one half of the legendary “Splash Brothers” duo with Stephen Curry signed a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, ending one of the most iconic partnerships in NBA history.
While fans had long braced for changes, the reality of Klay leaving Golden State still stunned the basketball world. The move wasn’t just the end of a contract — it was the closing of a dynasty chapter that defined an era.
🏆 A Legendary Run Together
Since being drafted 11th overall in 2011, Klay Thompson became an integral piece of Golden State’s transformation from a struggling franchise into a modern-day dynasty:
4× NBA Champion (2015, 2017, 2018, 2022)
5× NBA Finals appearances
Over 2,200 made three-pointers
Countless unforgettable moments, including a 37-point quarter and a 60-point game on just 11 dribbles
Alongside Stephen Curry, Klay revolutionized the NBA’s style of play with their elite perimeter shooting, off-ball movement, and unselfishness. Together, they redefined what it meant to stretch the floor.
> “I don’t think there will ever be another backcourt like Steph and Klay,” said Draymond Green. “They changed the game.”
⌛ Why It Ended
So, why did the Warriors let him go?
1. Decline in Production
After suffering back-to-back ACL and Achilles injuries, Klay returned in 2022 and helped the Warriors win another title. But by 2023–24, his performance had declined noticeably. He averaged 17.9 points per game on his lowest shooting percentages since his rookie season and was eventually benched during key playoff games.
2. Contract and Cap Space
Thompson reportedly wanted a multi-year extension in the range of $25–30 million per year. The Warriors, already carrying expensive contracts for Curry, Green, Wiggins, and others, were reluctant to commit big money to an aging star whose production was slipping.
3. A Changing Identity
Golden State is trying to get younger, with players like Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Moses Moody gaining more minutes. The front office — led by Mike Dunleavy Jr. — made the difficult decision to prioritize long-term flexibility over loyalty.
💔 The Emotional Fallout
The breakup wasn’t without tension.
Klay unfollowed the Warriors on Instagram weeks before free agency opened, a subtle but telling sign of frustration. Reports suggested he felt undervalued and disrespected during contract talks.
Still, when the split became official, tributes poured in from fans, teammates, and even rivals.
> “Love you forever, 11,” Curry posted. “Thank you for every single moment.”
Klay leaves the Warriors as:
The second all-time leading three-point shooter in franchise history
A top-tier defender during his prime
A player whose stoic fire and love for the game became central to Golden State’s culture
🌟 A New Beginning in Dallas
With the Mavericks, Klay joins Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving in what could be a high-powered, floor-spacing trio. While no longer in his All-Star prime, his shooting, experience, and spacing are expected to give Dallas a huge boost — especially after their Finals run in 2024.
Head coach Jason Kidd called him “a perfect fit” and praised his championship pedigree.
For Klay, it’s a chance to chase another ring, prove the doubters wrong, and write a new chapter in a different shade of blue.
