“Meant So Much to Me”: Klay Thompson Draws Lifelong Inspiration From 3X NBA Champion Amid Bench Role With Warriors

Larry Bird’s optimism for Klay Thompson voiced during a Tech Summit, was a crucial push for the Warriors’ star as he had just moved to a sixth-man role after 12 years as a starter. This situation was worsened by contract uncertainty and the need to make sacrifices for the team’s greater benefit. So, looking at brickbats thrown at him, Bird went on to say, “Klay Thompson has always been one of my favorite players, what an incredible shooter.”

Bird further complimented Thompson’s historic 60-point game against the Pacers in 2016, which struck a deep chord with Klay, who grew up hearing about the Celtics-Lakers rivalry. The video footage of Bird’s comments became a treasured remembrance for Thompson, who spoke openly about the emotional effect of his career change and how inspired he was after receiving the words of motivation from an NBA Legend.

Larry Bird becomes the catalyst for Klay Thompson’s motivation

Klay Thompson’s path this season has been one of adjustment and introspection. As he is adjusting to a new role on the team and evaluates his future with the Warriors, Bird’s remarks serve as a reminder of his effect on the game and the respect he has gained from those around him. “It’s very nice to be reminded, especially from someone like Larry, who I not only looked up to but who I heard about my whole life, especially from my dad,” Thompson shared with The Athletic. “I watched the Showtime Lakers versus those Celtics teams, and it was just a really cool thing to hear. To hear him going out of his way to say that meant so much to me.”

That is because Thompson’s current trajectory in the league has not been looking so good. His future with the Warriors is a mystery as he nears free agency, but he remains dedicated to the organization. While contract discussions and team dynamics complicate matters, Thompson’s focus remains on enjoying every moment on the court and having a positive mindset, as seen by his tenacity and good demeanor during this difficult season.

He even observed that he is becoming a lot better at not letting his identity influence his play, which he recognized as a tremendous accomplishment. So, Thompson highlighted that the ability to play, have fun, and stay healthy is more important than any huge shooting night or milestone, such as shooting 50-40-90. Now as Thompson keeps improving in his new role and contributes to the Warriors’ success, Bird’s remarks serve as a reminder of how powerful a few words of encouragement can be.

Read More: “Refreshed” Klay Thompson is “Grateful” Despite Reduced Role on Warriors