Following the conclusion of his 13-year bond with the Warriors, Klay Thompson is about to begin a new journey with the Dallas Mavericks. But the end was not something he envisioned. Fueled by disdain and perceived betrayal from the franchise, Klay finally made peace with the fact that he was done with the Bay Area. After coming out of the bitter split, the sharpshooter breathed a sigh of relief referring to it as the “Best summer ever” on his Instagram story. To enhance his summer memories, Klay showed up at Rico Hines’ star-studded camp to share his wisdom amassed in those years with the up-and-coming talents of the game.

After the practice run ended, with his team snatching most wins, Klay gave a powerful message to the young players. “Man, just don’t let anybody take your joy,” the swingman began. “It’s that y’all playing a crazy era where everybody got something to say. Your parents, coaches, Internet trolls, all that. Just ignore all that, and remember why you play this game and stay present, surrender the outcome, like the outcome really don’t matter.” Klay drew a parallel with his own situation in the Dubs in recent years. During his injury troubles, everyone had something to say about it. The talk didn’t stop even after his return to the court with criticism following him everywhere. Klay’s contractual dissatisfaction finally boiled over and in his words, he didn’t let anyone else take his joy of playing away.

Klay also advised them to enjoy the game, be more focused on their abilities and take pride in their games. As the 4-time champion feels there is “No better job in the world” than playing basketball for a living. Lastly, he concluded by saying, “Remember why you play this game. It’s for the love of the game. Not because you wanna, you know, get all the things that come with it, but for the love of the game. And I promise you, you’ll make the most out of your ability.” These beautiful words from the veteran were certainly enough to inspire the youth for a promising future.

Like every year, the Sixers’ assistant coach, Hines, arranged the summer training camp. This time it was at Conley to raise money for creating educational opportunities for the local youth. Kevin Porter Jr. and Derrick Jones Jr. were amongst the others who joined Klay. It was certainly a great break for Klay as he steps up preparation for a new chapter with the Mavs.

Klay Thompson explains what he will bring to the table

From the time Klay’s deal got official with the Mavericks, the player looked delighted to form a new Big 3 with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. However, after his disappointing season with the Warriors, it’s better to anticipate that he might not be in the best form. But Klay has other plans to compensate for his flaws.

Like the other basketball enthusiasts, Klay was thrilled by the on-court chemistry between Doncic and Kyrie. To be a part of it gave the 34-year-old a new hope for the fifth championship title. But is he the right fit? The star himself answered it on the Hometown Favorites weekend. Justifying his role, Klay said, “At this point in my career, I might not be able to run as fast as everyone or jump as high, but I can still knock down open shots.” Dallas’ defeat to the Celtics in the 2024 NBA Finals made him believe that something was missing. That’s when he figured out he could be the perfect fit. “I think I can be that missing piece for them. The (defense) can’t guard Kyrie and Luka, they can’t send as many double teams, they gotta worry about playing backside.”

The official training camp will begin in less than a month. So gear up, to witness Klay Thompson in action which could finally bring an end to the franchise’s trophy drought.