After 13 seasons with the Golden State Warriors, Klay Thompson left the team and signed with the Dallas Mavericks. The 2023-24 season proved difficult for Thompson, as he struggled with his shot and was relegated to the bench for 14 games.

Reflecting on his challenging season, Thompson admitted that external criticism and self-doubt impacted his performance. “The last two years were so tough for me,” Thompson shared with Tristan Jass, via HoopsHype. “You try to measure yourself to what you were, and like, all the accomplishments… I let so much other crap get into my head, and I forgot why I really play this game.”

Thompson acknowledged that he had focused too much on comparing himself to others. “I didn’t realize how big a waste of energy that is,” Thompson said. He pointed to the negative comments from critics and social media, explaining how those outside voices interfered with his love for the game. “I let that impede what I was great at last year.”

Despite the challenges, Thompson remained proud of his performance during the season. “At the end of the day, I look back like, bro, I still play a phenomenal brand of ball,” he said. “You 18 a game, 39% from three. I’m not gonna let someone tell me that’s not great.”

Thompson’s ability to score nearly 18 points per game and shoot just under 39% from three-point range last season highlights his continued value on the court. He also averaged 3.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 29.7 minutes per game, solidifying his presence despite the difficulties.

His departure from Golden State marked the end of an era for the Warriors, where Thompson was an integral part of the team’s dynasty, winning multiple championships alongside Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. However, his move to Dallas represents a fresh start as Thompson seeks to rediscover his passion for the game.

The summer of 2024 allowed Thompson to reflect on his career and rekindle his love for basketball. He emphasized how important it was for him to get back to the basics. “That’s why the summer’s been so big for me… I love [the game], you know?” Thompson explained, highlighting the need to focus on what truly matters: his love for basketball and not outside expectations.

Now with the Mavericks, Thompson looks to channel that renewed perspective into his upcoming season. He enters the 2024-25 season with a fresh mindset and a desire to prove that he can still be a significant contributor in the NBA. At 34 years old, Thompson’s veteran experience and elite shooting will undoubtedly provide Dallas with a valuable asset.

For Thompson, his story is no longer about living up to what others expect but about enjoying the game he has played for over a decade. As he put it, “I’m not gonna let someone tell me that’s not great.”