Warriors Star Klay Thompson Reveals How Hall of Famer Dominque Wilkins, Who Had Iconic Battles vs Michael Jordan, Inspired His NBA Return
Follow Us
Klay Thompson has revealed that former NBA All-Star Dominique Wilkins inspired him to come back and play. Klay, who was sidelined for three years due to injuries, was asked by former player Richard Jefferson whether there was anyone outside of the Golden State Warriors organization that gave him support. The Warriors shooting guard mentioned Kevin Durant and how the latter told him that he will be fine the day after.
He said, “Dominique Wilkins was the one I saw. I saw him before we played the Hawks this season in San Francisco and just talked to him about the recovery process and what he did to lead the league in scoring next year and be an All-Star. It gave me a ton of motivation and that was like 30 years ago. For Dominique, to seek me out and give me inspiration.”
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Charles Barkley Roasts Shaquille O’Neal While Commentating at the Match Featuring Tom Brady
Klay said it meant a whole lot to him and praised Dominique’s jump, saying that not many can repeat it in the NBA today. Wilkins winning a EuroLeague Final MVP and being an All-Star reiterated Klay’s desire to stick to his plan.
Klay Thompson and Dominique Wilkins: Injury histories
Dominique Wilkins suffered various injuries from 1994-95. He ruptured his Achilles tendon in 1991-92. His 28.1 scoring average was the highest he had scored in five years. He also scored 52 points in a double-overtime game on the 7th of December against the New York Knicks, which were the most by an NBA player that season.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
He also suffered a ring finger injury in December 1992. Wilkins put up 29.4 points per game on .487 shooting upon his return in January. He, then, scored 31.5 points per game on .519 shooting in February. By the end of the season, his scoring per game was up to 29.9. Wilkins came second in the league only behind Michael Jordan’s 32.6.
Trending
Draymond Green’s Eyes Reveal Warriors’ Tricks Admits LeBron James, 7 Days After Best Friends Stood at Odds
March 27, 2024 02:02 PM EDT
Michael Jordan Only Had 5 Words After Scottie Pippen’s Stinging Betrayal Hit Hard, as Per ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith
March 28, 2024 03:44 PM EDT
Why Did Caleb Love Leave UNC? Is Ex-Teammate’s Girlfriend The Reason Behind This Move?
November 11, 2023 03:27 PM EST
$75 Million Opportunity Threatens Suns X-Factor’s Position as Matt Ishbia and Co Risk Hefty NBA Penalty
March 28, 2024 01:30 AM EDT
“I Have No Money…Please Let Me Just Stay on the Couch”: Carmelo Anthony Narrates Unfortunate Tale as He Relives Hilarious Encounter
March 28, 2024 12:50 PM EDT
Get instantly notified of the hottest NBA stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.
Follow Us
Klay Thompson was sidelined for almost three years. He turned over his ACL during Game 6 of the 2019 Finals against the Toronto Raptors. After that, in 2020, he suffered an Achilles tendon injury. Hence, it left him not playing two consecutive seasons for the Warriors.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch this Story: Michael Jordan Owns A NASCAR Team: How Did The Millionaire NBA Legend Come Around To Buying A Racing Team?
He finally returned in January of this year and is raring to play the Finals against the Boston Celtics. Klay will hope to win his 4th ring with the Warriors.
Edited by:
Veer Badani