Former NBA champion Tristan Thompson is a familiar face for NBA fans. The former Cleveland Cavaliers star helped LeBron James win his third title after beating the Golden State Warriors despite a 3-1 deficit in 2016. Following this famous win, Thompson was mainly out of the limelight and he even pursued a career in the media industry. Recently, Thompson sat down with The Athletic and talked about his highly publicized return to basketball with the Los Angeles Lakers, among other things.

Thompson also touched upon his short TV stint with ESPN.

Tristan Thompson talks about his ESPN stint and future ambitions

A career in the media industry is one of the most popular career options for retired NBA players. After all, Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, Richard Jefferson, and many others have already made a name for themselves in that industry.

However, fans around the world were taken aback when they saw Tristan Thompson on the sets of ESPN’s NBA Today. He is 32 years old and still has a lot to offer on the court. However, what seemed like a premature end to a career soon ended as the veteran forward’s NBA return was confirmed.

The Lakers signed Thompson on the last day of the regular season. He brings the experience of winning an NBA title inside their locker room.

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Recently, Thompson was interviewed by The Athletic where he revealed some details about this move while also talking about his time with ESPN. 

Thompson said, “It was fun. I’m so grateful for ESPN getting the opportunity to do that. I loved each and every minute of it. I approach the TV, the opportunity, just like basketball. Came in early, watched film. I’ve heard nothing but great reviews about how I did so it’s definitely an area that I want to explore more when that time comes.”

Interestingly, Thompson had enraged NBA fans and Khloe Kardashian fans, in particular, on the sets of NBA Today a few months ago. The 2016 NBA champion was seemingly flirting with a female basketball star while rumors suggested that Thompson and Kardashian might reconcile.

READ MORE: Tragic Loss for NBA Ex Tristan Thompson Forces Sad Decision from Khloe Kardashian

Thompson has the green signal to criticize players

As it turns out, Head Coach Darvin Ham has given Thompson the green light to criticize Lakers players who haven’t been to the highest stage. That’s where Thompson’s veteran presence comes in.

“I want you to use your voice, your know-how. Talk it through with them,” Ham has told Thompson. 

WATCH THIS STORY: A timeline of Khloe Kardashians’ relationship with Tristan Thompson

Do you think the Lakers can win the championship this season? Let us know in the comments below.