MANILA, Philippines — Klay Thompson, the four-time NBA champion of the Golden State Warriors said meeting Filipino basketball fans in the country for the first time is an unforgettable experience.
“Meeting Filipino basketball fans here is so special,” declared Thompson at the arrival media conference for him and teammate Kevon Looney yesterday. “I’ve seen their passion and love for the game. I always wanted to come here. I love Manny Pacquiao. I think he’s one of the world’s greatest athletes. I also love Bruno Mars. He reminds me so much of Michael Jackson.”
Thompson and Looney are in the country as part of their Asian tour for global sports brand Anta and to witness the finals of the new “Shock The Game” nationwide four-on-four tournament. The NBA’s leading three-point shooter added that arriving during the FIBA World Cup brings back fond memories for him.
“I remember playing for Team USA in the 2014 FIBA World Cup, and it really took my game to another level,” said Thompson, who started winning NBA titles with the Warriors in the 2015-2016 season. “This (2023) team, they put their pride aside and play together to win for the country.”
In Game 6 of the 2019 NBA Finals, Thompson tore the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his left knee, and missed the following season. During that time he tore his right Achilles tendon, missing 31 months of action. The 2016 Olympic gold medalist helped the Warriors win their fourth title in eight years in 2022. He has career averages of 20 points, 3.5 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game and set a new career-high in three-pointers made last season.
“I’m really hoping to get back into All-Star shape. It’s a huge goal of mine,” admitted Thompson, who arrived from China where his Asian tour started. “It’s a great experience aside from winning a championship and playing for Team USA. I’ve missed it the last three years.”
Source: The Philippine Star | September 1, 2023
