Klay Thompson sets Mavericks record with six threes in debut win [VIDEO]

Klay Thompson’s Impressive Debut with the Dallas Mavericks

Klay Thompson made a spectacular debut for the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night, setting a franchise record for the most 3-pointers in a debut with six made threes. Thompson’s sharp shooting and seasoned presence helped lead the Mavericks to a 120-109 victory over the San Antonio Spurs in the season opener for both teams.

After 13 seasons with the Golden State Warriors, where he earned five All-Star selections and won four NBA championships, Thompson made an immediate impact in his first game with the Mavericks. He scored 22 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and added three steals to his stat line, offering a glimpse of what Mavericks fans can expect in the upcoming season.

Thompson’s Transition to Dallas

The transition to the Mavericks was made easier with Thompson joining a formidable backcourt that includes Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving. Speaking after the game, Thompson shared his excitement for the new chapter: “The feelings were a lot of nerves and anxiousness at first, but after seeing the first one go through, I felt great. It’s just one game in October, but it feels good to get the first one out of the way.”

The night began with some initial jitters for Thompson, who missed his first few shots. However, he quickly found his rhythm, hitting his first 3-pointer just before halftime. After the break, Thompson went on a shooting spree, sinking four of five shots from beyond the arc. His sharpshooting, combined with his defensive contributions, helped the Mavericks take control of the game, particularly during a 16-3 run in the fourth quarter.

Klay Thompson was such an integral part of the Golden State Warriors for so long. He and Steph Curry made one of the NBA’s most-formidable duos ever. As a result, Thompson’s departure from the Warriors was jarring. However, it looks like the change of scenery is doing him well. It’s only Klay’s first game and he’s already making history. Thus, he’s placing himself on the franchise’s record books on his first night on the job.

Record-Breaking Performance

Thompson’s six made 3-pointers set a franchise record for most threes made by a player in their Mavericks debut. His performance energized both the crowd and his teammates. Luka Dončić, who scored 28 points and added 10 rebounds and eight assists, commented on playing alongside Thompson: “It makes your life easier. It makes my life and Kai’s easier. He just gives us so much space, and it’s great.”

Thompson’s shooting streak was highlighted by a memorable sequence in the fourth quarter when he paused briefly to read the defense and then drained a deep 3-pointer, much to the delight of the crowd. “When you’re wide open like that, sometimes you overthink it,” Thompson said. “I heard Luka was running down the floor, and I didn’t want to make him look stupid, so I had to make it.”

Obviously, this isn’t the first time Klay Thompson made history. His claim to fame took place in 2015, when he scored 37 points in a quarter. When he accomplished this, vs. the Sacramento Kings, Klay made league history. Those 37 points in a quarter remain historic. Now, he’s notched six three pointers in his Mavs debut.

Social Media Buzz

Thompson’s debut didn’t go unnoticed on social media, with fans and analysts alike praising his return to form. One fan tweeted, “Woohoo, Klay is on fire! So proud of him 🙌!” while others remarked on how seamless he looked in the Mavericks system. Jason Bilyeu added, “Very fitting,” while another fan commented, “Mavs looking impressive in season opener. Luka got the help he needed.”

Another fan highlighted Thompson’s consistency over the years, writing, “Klay may have set the record, but can he keep up this level of performance consistently? 🤔🔥” With such a strong debut, there’s a lot of anticipation surrounding how Thompson will mesh with Dončić and Irving as the season progresses.

Moving Forward: High Expectations

Looking forward, the Mavericks are poised for a strong season with Thompson providing a new dimension to their offense. His ability to stretch the floor alongside Dončić and Irving creates numerous options, and his championship experience will be invaluable for a team hoping to make a deep playoff run.

Thompson acknowledged that there’s a long season ahead but remains optimistic. “This is just the beginning, and I’m excited about what’s to come,” he said.

With Thompson’s record-setting debut, the Mavericks have sent a clear message to the rest of the league that they are a force to be reckoned with. As they move further into the season, all eyes will be on the dynamic trio of Thompson, Dončić, and Irving as they work to establish themselves as top contenders in the Western Conference.

Last season, the Dallas Mavericks upset their way to the NBA Finals. Each team they defeated retooled their roster, during the offseason. However, in the case of the Clippers, Paul George left in free agency. But, with the Timberwolves, they traded Karl-Anthony Towns right before the preseason. The Oklahoma City Thunder also made some roster changes.

Not to be outdone, the Mavericks also made a major play. During free agency, the Mavs signed Klay Thompson. Fresh off his second straight disappointing season, the Warriors were unlikely to offer Klay the kind of money he would prefer. As a result, he tested free agency. This would lead to Thompson signing with the Mavs.

If tonight is any indicator, Klay makes the Mavs this much more of a threat.

Final Thoughts: Klay’s New Era in Dallas

For Thompson, his debut with the Mavericks marks the beginning of a new era. After leaving Golden State, many wondered how he would adapt to a different system. However, Thursday night’s performance silenced any doubts. He has proven that his sharpshooting ability and leadership are still at an elite level.

As Dallas fans continue to celebrate Thompson’s remarkable first outing, there’s a palpable sense of excitement about what this team can accomplish with their newest star in the fold.

With the Mavericks already fresh off an NBA Finals appearance, they hope Klay is their missing piece to win the title.