The Golden State Warriors haven’t been having the season they envisioned when they began the year, and Klay Thompson, in particular, has struggled. In fact, he’s been so rough that Steve Kerr recently moved him to the bench. He pointed to San Antonio Spurs legend Manu Ginobili as a primary reason why he’s willing to take on the role.
This year marks Thompson’s 11th season in the league, and on Thursday night, he came off the bench for the first time since his rookie season. The five-time All-Star and four-time NBA Champion has learned to accept the role, shouting out Ginobili in the process.
He said that if Ginobili can do it, he can. (H/t Tim Capurso of Sports Illustrated)
“Just got to let the ego go when you think of coming off the bench and all that. I thought about Manu Ginóbili,” Thompson said. “That guy has four rings and a gold medal. Came off the bench his whole career, and I don’t think anyone looks down on his Hall of Fame candidacy. He’s one of the greats. I embraced it before the tip.”
In 28 minutes off the bench against the Utah Jazz, Thompson poured in a season-high 35 points to go along with six rebounds and two assists. He shot 13-of-22 from the floor and 7-of-13 from behind the three-point line.
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