"Blue is my favorite color" - Klay Thompson expresses delight after breaking Mavs record in debut
Veteran shooting guard Klay Thompson made history during his Dallas Mavericks regular-season debut on Thursday against the San Antonio Spurs. Afterward, he expressed delight to be part of the reigning Western Conference champions.
Thompson, who joined Dallas via a three-year, $50 million sign-and-trade deal over the offseason, struggled during the preseason. However, he alleviated concerns surrounding his play in the Mavericks' 120-109 opening-night victory over the Spurs.
The four-time NBA champion tallied 22 points, seven rebounds, three steals and six 3-pointers, shooting 53.8% and 60.0% from deep. Thompson's six triples set Dallas' franchise record for a player in their debut.
Following the contest, Thompson appeared elated for the chance to suit up alongside Mavericks superstar guard Luka Doncic and his co-star Kyrie Irving.
"Couldn't ask for a better start," Thompson said. "I mean, just sharing the floor with Ky, Luka and the rest of the guys was really special after a hard month of really good work. To see it come to fruition was awesome."
When asked how he felt during his debut, Thompson noted that wearing the Mavericks' signature blue jersey felt right.
"I feel great. Blue is my favorite color, and Mavs blue looks good on me," Thompson said. "So, I'm having a great time."
This season marks Thompson's first apart from the Golden State Warriors after spending his first 11 campaigns with the organization. If Thursday's performance is any indication, the five-time All-Star appears to have plenty left in the tank.
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Klay Thompson on having Luka Doncic as teammate
During his postgame interview, Klay Thompson also touched on what it's like to have Luka Doncic setting him up for open 3-pointers.
According to Thompson, the five-time All-Star creates additional opportunities for all his teammates. He added that he will do all he can to help Doncic as well.
"Luka makes the game easier for not just myself but everybody in this arena," Thompson said. "I mean, the gravity he demands, his passing ability, second to none, and I'm here to help him try and be one of the greatest."
Thompson and Dallas (1-0) will return to action on Saturday when they visit the Phoenix Suns (1-0).
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