Draft Profile
Klay thompson draft – Klay Thompson, standing at 6’7″ with a wingspan of 6’9″, entered the 2011 NBA Draft as a highly sought-after prospect due to his exceptional physical attributes and refined skill set. His collegiate career at Washington State University showcased his ability to impact the game on both ends of the court.
During his three seasons with the Cougars, Thompson established himself as one of the most prolific shooters in the NCAA. He holds the school record for three-pointers made in a single season and was named to the All-Pac-10 First Team twice. His shooting prowess extended beyond the arc, as he also displayed a consistent mid-range game and the ability to finish at the rim.
The Golden State Warriors’ Klay Thompson, drafted 11th overall in 2011, has become one of the league’s premier shooters. However, it’s worth noting the emergence of another promising young talent in Quentin Grimes. A similar sharpshooter, Grimes, who went undrafted in 2021, has shown impressive shooting prowess in the NBA G League.
His ability to stretch the floor could make him a valuable asset for any team, including the Warriors, who may be looking to add depth to their shooting corps.
Strengths
Thompson’s greatest strength lies in his shooting ability. His quick release, high release point, and smooth stroke make him a lethal threat from anywhere on the court. He is also an adept ball-handler and passer, making him a versatile offensive weapon.
Defensively, Thompson’s length and athleticism allow him to guard multiple positions. He is a tenacious defender who takes pride in shutting down his opponents.
Weaknesses
Despite his impressive skill set, Thompson has some areas where he can improve. His lateral quickness can be a liability at times, and he can be prone to lapses in concentration.
Klay Thompson, the sharpshooting guard, was drafted by the Golden State Warriors in 2011. His impact on the team’s success has been undeniable, but it’s worth noting that another player from the same draft class, Jonas Valanciunas , has also carved out a respectable career.
Valanciunas, a Lithuanian center, has established himself as a solid contributor for several teams, including the Toronto Raptors and New Orleans Pelicans. While Thompson’s achievements may overshadow Valanciunas’s, both players have made significant contributions to the NBA.
Thompson has also had a history of injuries, including a broken ankle and a sprained MCL. While he has shown resilience in returning from these setbacks, his injury history is a concern for NBA teams.
Draft Process: Klay Thompson Draft
Klay Thompson was one of the most sought-after prospects in the 2011 NBA Draft, with several teams expressing interest in selecting him.
One of the main factors that influenced Thompson’s draft position was his injury history. He had suffered a broken foot during his junior season at Washington State University, which caused him to miss several games. This raised concerns among some teams about his durability and ability to stay healthy in the NBA.
Another factor that affected Thompson’s draft position was the presence of other talented players in the draft. The 2011 draft class was considered to be one of the strongest in recent years, with several players who were expected to go high in the first round. This meant that Thompson had to compete with other highly-rated prospects for a spot in the lottery.
Ultimately, the Golden State Warriors selected Thompson with the 11th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. The Warriors were looking for a shooting guard to complement their young core of Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis, and they believed that Thompson had the potential to be a valuable contributor.
Teams Interested in Drafting Klay Thompson
- Cleveland Cavaliers: The Cavaliers were interested in Thompson because they were looking for a shooting guard to replace the departed LeBron James. They believed that Thompson’s shooting ability and athleticism would make him a good fit for their team.
- Minnesota Timberwolves: The Timberwolves were also interested in Thompson because they were looking for a shooting guard to complement their young core of Ricky Rubio and Kevin Love. They believed that Thompson’s shooting ability and defensive versatility would make him a good fit for their team.
- Golden State Warriors: The Warriors were interested in Thompson because they were looking for a shooting guard to complement their young core of Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis. They believed that Thompson’s shooting ability and athleticism would make him a good fit for their team.
Factors that Influenced Thompson’s Draft Position
- Injury history: Thompson had suffered a broken foot during his junior season at Washington State University, which caused him to miss several games. This raised concerns among some teams about his durability and ability to stay healthy in the NBA.
- Presence of other talented players in the draft: The 2011 draft class was considered to be one of the strongest in recent years, with several players who were expected to go high in the first round. This meant that Thompson had to compete with other highly-rated prospects for a spot in the lottery.
How the Golden State Warriors Acquired Thompson
The Golden State Warriors selected Thompson with the 11th overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. The Warriors were looking for a shooting guard to complement their young core of Stephen Curry and Monta Ellis, and they believed that Thompson had the potential to be a valuable contributor.
Impact on Golden State Warriors
Klay Thompson’s arrival in the Bay Area marked a pivotal moment for the Golden State Warriors. His sharpshooting prowess and defensive tenacity became integral to the team’s transformation into a perennial championship contender.
Complementing the Core, Klay thompson draft
Thompson’s arrival in 2011 complemented the Warriors’ rising stars, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, forming a formidable trio that would dominate the NBA for years to come. Thompson’s elite shooting opened up the floor for Curry, allowing him to create havoc with his dribbling and long-range shots. Green’s versatile defense provided the backbone, while Thompson’s ability to guard multiple positions solidified their defensive unit.
Statistical Contributions
Thompson’s impact was evident in the Warriors’ statistical dominance. During their championship runs, he averaged over 20 points per game, shooting over 40% from three-point range. In the 2015-16 season, he set an NBA record by hitting 27 consecutive three-pointers. His ability to score in bunches and defend at a high level made him a nightmare for opposing teams.
Three NBA Championships
Thompson’s contributions played a pivotal role in the Warriors’ three NBA championships in 2015, 2017, and 2018. His clutch shooting and lockdown defense were instrumental in their victories. In the 2018 Finals, he hit a record 11 three-pointers in Game 6, helping the Warriors clinch the title.
