In a recent interview, Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd shed light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that led to the recruitment of Klay Thompson from the Golden State Warriors. While many factors contributed to Thompson’s decision, Kidd emphasized the crucial role played by star guard Kyrie Irving.
During an episode of NBC Sports Bay Area’s “Dubs Talk,” Kidd revealed that the recruitment of Thompson was a collective effort involving several people. However, he singled out Irving as a key player in convincing Thompson to join the Mavericks.
“When you talk about the recruitment, it was a lot of people that were involved in that,” Kidd said. “But one of the biggest players in that was [Irving]. [Irving] being able to, player to player, (detail) his experience of what Dallas has been like for him in two years and being able to tell Klay the honest truth of what he thinks can happen with Klay coming to Dallas”.
Irving’s pitch to Thompson wasn’t just about basketball. It encompassed the entire experience of living and playing in Dallas. Irving shared his personal experiences and the positive aspects of being part of the Mavericks organization. This player-to-player communication was instrumental in swaying Thompson’s decision.
“I would love to say it was all me, but it wasn’t. It was a team effort. But I think player-to-player – in this league, they all talk about their situations, and they all recruit one another – this was about [Irving] and Klay being able to talk”.
Thompson, a five-time NBA All-Star and one of the league’s most lethal shooters, had several suitors when he became an unrestricted free agent. The Mavericks, however, offered a unique combination of factors that appealed to him. Texas’ lack of state income tax, the Mavericks’ status as Western Conference champions, and the city of Dallas itself all played into Thompson’s decision.
“Dallas is attractive because of the young players they have, the style they play, the world-class treatment they get from the organization,” Thompson said during his introductory press conference in July.
With Thompson’s addition, the Mavericks are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season. His championship experience, combined with the talents of Irving and Luka Doncic, creates a formidable lineup. Irving’s role in recruiting Thompson marks a significant moment in his career, showcasing his commitment to the Mavericks and his ability to influence other top players.
