“Was One of My Role Models”- Jonathan Kuminga Shared His Reaction When He Learned About Klay Thompson’s Exit From the Warriors

When Klay Thompson chose to join the Dallas Mavericks, the Golden State Warriors lost one of their key players for the upcoming championship. His departure from the franchise sent shockwaves through the NBA. In this wave, Warriors’ young forward Jonathan Kuminga also opened up about his personal reaction to Klay’s exit.

When Jonathan Kuminga joined the Warriors, Klay Thompson became a mentor figure for him. Kuminga’s three seasons with the 4-times champion began when he joined the team as a rookie from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In a recent interview with ESPN, the 21-year-old said, “I was a little shocked. Klay is somebody that took me under his wing when I first got drafted. He was one of my role models when I was out there.”

“At the end of the day, I’m happy for him.”

JK details his appreciation for Klay 🥲 pic.twitter.com/xCr2ztKmya

— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) July 14, 2024

Thompson’s departure must have been surprising for the young star, as he lost a valuable mentor. However, instead of grief, Jonathon expressed happiness in the interview. “I’m happy for him at the end of the day. Every decision he makes, he makes for his own good and for his future. I still talk to him, ask him questions about how things work and stuff like that. But it is what it is. At the end of the day, I’m happy for him.” he added in the end note.

Dallas Mavericks GM’s Powerful Take on Klay Thompson

After falling short in the NBA Finals against the Boston Celtics, the Dallas Mavericks are driven to improve their lineup around Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving.

So, this week, they welcomed the four-time champion and five-time All-Star Klay Thompson to the team. According to Mavericks GM Nico Harrison, Klay’s addition fills a crucial gap they saw in the Finals.