What did Klay Thompson say in his farewell message to the Golden State Warriors?

Klay Thompson has posted an emotional farewell message to the Golden State Warriors, as the veteran prepares to join the Dallas Mavericks.

Thompson is leaving the Warriors after just over a decade at the California franchise, where he played a key role in creating the NBA’s most recent championship-winning dynasty.

Together with fellow Golden State stars such as Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, the 34-year-old led the Warriors to four NBA titles between 2015 and 2022. Drafted by the franchise from Washington State in 2011, Thompson helped Golden State to a total of six appearances in the NBA Finals.

“An honor” to wear Warriors jersey, Thompson says

“Oh Bay Area, there are not enough words and images to convey how I really feel about yall,” Thompson wrote on his Instagram account on Friday. “From the bottom of my heart, thank you o much for the best times of my life. It was such an honor to put that Dubs jersey on from day 1.

“I really just wanted to be the best I could be and help bring as many championships as possible to the region. The best part was not the rings though, it was the friendships I made that will last a lifetime. My family and I would like thank all of the amazing people who work tirelessly to make the Warriors organization world-class. Don’t be sad it’s over, be happy it happened.”

In his 11 seasons with the Warriors, Thompson was a five-time NBA All-Star.

The shooting guard is now expected to sign a three-year, $50 million deal with the Mavericks, who were beaten NBA finalists in 2024.

Warriors praise “incredible and legendary” Thompson

Thompson leaves the Warriors after a disappointing season in which the seven-time NBA champions failed to make the postseason. After finishing 10th in the Western Conference in the regular season, Steve Kerr’s men were beaten by the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament.

Earlier this week, the Warriors released a statement lauding the player’s “incredible and legendary contributions” to the franchise.

“Klay’s legacy will live on forever and we look forward to the day we can retire his #11 jersey at Chase Center, where he will join a host of Warriors immortals, including those who helped shape this recent dynasty - himself included,” Golden State said.