With this move, Thompson also had to choose a new number for his jersey.
He elected to use No. 31 and now his father is giving insight into why that decision was made.
According to Courtside Buzz, Mychal Thompson said his son is wearing No. 31 in honor of “one of his basketball idols,” Reggie Miller.
He added that Jason Terry winning a championship for Dallas while also wearing 31 is an inspiration.
Mychal Thompson, Klay Thompson’s father, says Klay is wearing No. 31 in Dallas in honor of “one of his basketball idols,” Reggie Miller! 💯
Klay also says Jason Terry winning a championship with the Mavericks while wearing No. 31 is also an inspiration! 🏆
Legends recognize… pic.twitter.com/ZhA29kXvYp
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) July 11, 2024
For years, Thompson wore No. 11 for the Warriors.
That number held a special place in his heart: he was the 11th overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft and just finished his 11th season in the league.
But things are changing and his departure for Dallas presents an opportunity for Thompson to start a new chapter.
With a different number and a change of scenery, Thompson is hoping to revive his career and play much better than he did last season.
He scored 17.9 points and 3.3 rebounds per game but was shooting poorly and didn’t seem to be his regular self.
Perhaps wearing the number of two of his idols will help Thompson find his rhythm again.
The hopes are high for Thompson and he will be closely watched and criticized.
Over the last few months, some fans have called him washed-up and past his prime.
Thompson is ready to prove that isn’t the case and choosing a new number is just one of the ways that he will pivot into this part of his career with the Mavericks.
