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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Klay Thompson received the warmest welcome to the court after missing out on the last game. The Golden State Warriors star has received a lot of criticism this season because of a slight dip in his performance. Klay himself expressed his disappointment. Amidst this slump, he received a perfect gift from a fan ahead of the Phoenix Suns clash to lighten up his mood.

A fan presented Thompson with a large painting with his dog Rocco in it, along with the GSW logo. Unlike other star players, Thompson isn’t known for his parties and lavish trips. Rocco has played an important role in the 34-year-old’s life over the last decade. So this gift amid his poor run would most probably lighten the Splash Bro’s mood ahead of the intense game.

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The painting featured Rucco sporting a sailor’s hat with his best friend Klay Thompson in the back, dribbling the ball. It also has two phrases, which read, “Splash in History,” and “Splash Forever.” Apart from that, the painting had #11 painted inside the Warriors logo.

After receiving the gift from the young fan, China Klay took a picture with the fan’s family along with the painting. Notably, this heart-warming gesture from the fan came days after Klay was snubbed late in the fourth quarter against the Brooklyn Nets.

Coach Steve Kerr took the hard call to bench Klay in the crucial last 6 minutes of the game, owing to his poor shooting that night. After the game, Klay himself expressed his disappointment.

Read More – Klay Thompson: NBA Discourse Doesn’t Attract Warriors Star, Slaps Playoffs Doubt With Sharp Response

Will the heart-warming gift turn around the star’s game tonight? Well, Rocco has a positive influence on Klay’s game. How? Let’s find out

Rocco’s influence in Klay’s life

The 4x NBA Champion has spoken about his dog several times in the past. He has also stressed the importance of having a dog as a basketball player. He said, “We’re very performance-based, and it’s a high-pressure job… Obviously, we get compensated very well. But it’s still got its rigors that people don’t know about. Having a dog can do wonders that you don’t even realize,” reported Mercury News.

 

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A post shared by Klay Thompson (@klaythompson)

While it may surprise some, the baller also improves his dribbling skills with the help of his dog. Once he said, “I do dribbling drills with that dude, and he will tighten up your handles. So, yes, he makes me better.”

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Watch This Story – “Gave Me Chills”: Klay Thompson Joins Stephen Curry and Other Warriors in Relishing Estranged Teammate’s Return

What do you make of the heartwarming gift that Thompson received? Let us know in the comments below.