Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob expressed mixed emotions about Klay Thompson’s departure to the Dallas Mavericks this offseason.
In an interview with The Athletic, Lacob reminisced about Thompson’s significant contributions to the Warriors over his 13-year tenure.
Lacob shared a personal video message he sent to Thompson, symbolizing deep respect and gratitude for their time together.
“I sent him that little video of me bowing to him, which you just alluded to,” he said. “It was just my way of saying he meant so much to us and he was so much to this organization and everything we’ve accomplished as a group. And that I still that way about him. And I always will. It will never change.”
Despite Thompson’s move to Dallas, Lacob emphasized that their friendship and mutual respect remain unchanged, saying “I don’t care what people think happened or didn’t happen. He will always be welcome in my life. I hope he feels the same.”
Acknowledging the competitive nature of basketball, Lacob humorously remarked that they’ll have to compete against Thompson on the court.
“Honestly, I get a little, teary eyer about it. I hope we’re going to be friends forever. And he’s just going to be in Dallas for a few years and we’ll have to kick his a**. But that’s just the job. He, I’m sure, feels the same way. That’s called competition. But he will always be welcome,” he said.
