Klay Thompson, the sharpshooting guard who has redefined long-range shooting in the NBA, is a household name for basketball fans. Known for his role in the Golden State Warriors’ dynasty as one-half of the “Splash Brothers” alongside Stephen Curry, Thompson’s on-court prowess is well-documented. From his four NBA championships to his record-breaking three-point performances, his legacy as one of the game’s greatest shooters is secure. However, beyond the highlight reels and stat sheets, there are facets of Thompson’s life and personality that remain lesser-known to the casual observer.
With Thompson now donning the Dallas Mavericks jersey, let’s dive into eight intriguing, interesting facts about this basketball icon.
1. He’s a chess enthusiast who faced a world champion
While Thompson’s basketball skills are world-class, his love for chess reveals a cerebral side that complements his cool, calculated demeanor on the court. Thompson has been an avid chess player for years, often using the game as a way to unwind and sharpen his mind. In 2018, during a promotional event, he had the chance to play against Magnus Carlsen, the Norwegian grandmaster widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players of all time. Though Thompson didn’t win, the experience highlighted his passion for strategy games—a trait that perhaps informs his ability to read defenses and execute plays with precision. His English bulldog, Rocco, has also been humorously dubbed his chess rival, adding a quirky layer to this hobby.
2. His nickname “Game 6 Klay” stems from clutch playoff performances
While fans know Thompson as a “Splash Brother,” his “Game 6 Klay” moniker is a lesser-explored testament to his clutch gene. Throughout his career, Thompson has a remarkable tendency to elevate his game in Game 6 of playoff series, particularly when the Warriors faced elimination. His playoff shooting splits in these scenarios—often exceeding his already impressive regular-season numbers—have earned him this reputation. A standout example is Game 6 of the 2016 Western Conference Finals against the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he erupted for 41 points, including 11 three-pointers, to force a Game 7 and keep Golden State’s season alive.
3. He once raised over $360,000 for wildfire relief
Thompson’s off-court generosity often flies under the radar, but his response to the 2017 Northern California wildfires showcased his commitment to community. In October of that year, as devastating fires ravaged the region, Thompson pledged $1,000 per point scored in three consecutive home games to support relief efforts. Playing against the Washington Wizards, Toronto Raptors, and Detroit Pistons, he tallied 69 points across those games. With additional sponsor and fan matching, the total donation swelled to $5,223 per point, raising an impressive $360,374.
4. He was suspended in college for marijuana possession
Before his NBA stardom, Thompson faced a bump in the road during his time at Washington State University. In his junior year, in February 2011, he was cited for misdemeanor marijuana possession after police pulled him over for a traffic violation. The incident led to a suspension for his final regular-season game with the Cougars, a rare blemish on an otherwise stellar college career where he earned two All-Pac-10 First Team selections. Thompson later reflected on the incident with humor and humility, noting his relief at avoiding jail time, though it remains a little-known chapter in his journey to the pros.
5. He’s part of a rare father-son NBA championship duo
Basketball runs deep in the Thompson family, and Klay shares a unique distinction with his father, Mychal Thompson. Mychal, the No. 1 overall pick in the 1978 NBA Draft, won two championships with the Los Angeles Lakers in 1987 and 1988. Klay added to the family legacy by winning his first title with the Warriors in 2015, making them the fourth father-son duo in NBA history to each claim a championship. They joined the likes of Matt Guokas Sr. and Jr., Rick and Brent Barry, and Bill and Luke Walton.
6. He signed a decade-long deal with Chinese brand Anta
Unlike many NBA stars who align with Nike, Adidas, or Under Armour, Thompson took a different path by signing with Anta, a Chinese sportswear company, in 2015. What began as a unique endorsement evolved into a 10-year deal in 2017, reportedly worth up to $80 million. Thompson’s signature “KT” shoe line has since become a hit, particularly in China, where he enjoys a massive fanbase. His annual offseason trips to the country—often filled with lighthearted moments like dancing or interacting with fans—have solidified his status as a cultural ambassador, a lesser-known aspect of his global influence.
7. His dry sense of humor and offbeat personality shine off the court
Thompson’s stoic on-court presence belies a quirky, dry sense of humor that endears him to teammates and fans alike. Whether it’s his deadpan responses in interviews or memorable moments like signing a fan’s toaster in 2017 (which he later credited for the Warriors’ championship run that year), Thompson’s personality is a quiet riot. He once explained his No. 11 jersey as tied to everything from his draft position to the number of dribbles he took to score 60 points in a game, showcasing his offbeat charm.
8. He owns an English bulldog Named Rocco, his constant companion
Thompson’s bond with his English bulldog, Rocco, is a delightful footnote to his public persona. Adopted during his rookie season in 2011, Rocco has become a fixture in Thompson’s life, often appearing in social media posts and even “competing” with him in chess. Thompson’s affection for his pup reached a new level in 2018 when he brought Rocco to a press conference, jokingly calling him “Sir Rocco Von Thompson.”