Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors have informed Klay Thompson that they will take care of business ahead of his return to Chase Center since leaving the Dubs.
After thirteen years in the Bay Area, the Warriors legend parted ways with the team to join the Dallas Mavericks this offseason, ending a storied era for Golden State.
Before he returned, the Warriors shared a tribute video with their roster thanking Thompson for his contributions to the franchise. However, they made it clear that the sniper was entering enemy territory.
The montage began with soft music as the cast of Warriors alternated on-screen with heartwarming messages.
“It was an honor to play with you for 13 years,” Curry said. “Always remember every memory we were able to create as teammates and as Splash Brothers. I hope you get the hero’s welcome you deserve.’
Steph Curry and the Warriors trolled Klay Thompson ahead of his first game back in the Bay
“Welcome back to Warriors territory,” center Kevon Looney added. ‘You deserve to be celebrated. You’re a legend here and you’ve done a lot of great things for the Warriors, a lot of great things for me.
Head coach Steve Kerr also sang his praises, saying, “You are an icon in this franchise. Your statue will one day stand outside Chase.
“Thank you for all the championships, all the incredible moments, the person you are, the teammate you are,” Kerr added. “I enjoyed coaching you and welcoming you back.”
However, amid the wholesome tributes, the record scratched when his former teammates switched from praising to warning Thompson of what was to come.
“Bay, Dubs, you already know you belong,” Gary Payton II told Thompson. “I just wanted to thank you for everything you’ve done, but unfortunately I have to beat you up tonight.”
After 13 years with Golden State, Thompson left for Dallas after failing to reach a max
Thompson helped Golden State win the NBA championships in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2022
Curry and Thompson led the Warriors’ title runs with their productive shooting
“But we still have to beat you tonight,” Looney stated with a smile. “Good luck, I’m going to bother you.”
Thompson was drafted by Golden State with the 11th overall pick in 2011. From there, he helped the team win titles in 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2022.
The LA native made five All-Star selections and holds the records for most three-pointers in a game with 14 and most in a quarter with nine in a 37-point third-quarter loss to Sacramento in 2015.
Golden State will host the Mavericks in the opening round of the NBA Cup, with the teams set to kick off at 10:00 PM ET. The Warriors are third in the Western Conference with an 8-2 record, while Dallas is 11th at 5-5.