Klay Thompson has thanked the Golden State Warriors for giving him the “best times of my life”.
Thompson’s 13-year association with the Warriors came to an end on Monday when he signed a three-year, $50million deal with the Dallas Mavericks.
And, while his final season was one to forget as he was benched during a poor run of form that coincided with unsuccessful contract negotiations, the 34-year-old made clear that did not detract from a wonderful spell in which he helped the Dubs to four NBA Championships.
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Thompson wrote on Instagram: “Oh Bay Area , there are not enough words and images to convey how I really feel about yall .
“From the bottom of my heart, thank you so 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 to 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 . Until we meet again. Sea captain out.”
The Warriors have already announced they intend to retire Thompson’s number 11 jersey while Steph Curry paid tribute to his former team-mate on Tuesday, writing on Instagram: “Gonna miss you.
“Even though we won’t finish the journey together, what we did will never be done again. Couldn’t have imagined a better run with you and Draymond Green. Changed the whole Bay Area. Changed the way the game is played. Killa Klay at the center of it all. Thank you for everything bro. Go enjoy playing basketball and doing what you do.”
