In late October 2024, Dallas Mavericks guard Klay Thompson sent the NBA world buzzing with a succinct Instagram story that hinted at a possible reunion with former teammates. Posting “STACHE BROS! Wya @jordan_poole” alongside a workout clip with newly acquired guard D’Angelo Russell, Thompson reignited hopes for chemistry that could reshape the Mavericks’ future. This three-word message has sparked speculation about a rekindled connection between Thompson and fellow guard Russell, underlining a promising development for Dallas in the 2024-25 NBA season.
Rekindling Past Connections: Klay Thompson and D’Angelo Russell’s Shared History
The last time Klay Thompson and D’Angelo Russell were on the same team was during the 2019–20 season with the Golden State Warriors. Unfortunately, Thompson missed the entire year due to a torn ACL, preventing the two guards from forming any meaningful on-court collaboration. The 2025 offseason changed that narrative, as Russell signed a two-year deal valued at roughly $12 million with Dallas, offering potential value beyond just covering for Kyrie Irving’s anticipated ACL recovery downtime.
The two players were seen training together in Miami, suggesting that their renewed partnership is not just a product of chance, but a deliberate effort to blend their playing styles. Thompson’s tag “STACHE BROS” in the Instagram story also harkens back to a mentorship dynamic, particularly referencing his relationship with Jordan Poole, reflecting both loyalty and long-standing camaraderie within that group of players.
Klay Thompson’s Mentorship Role and the Deep Bond with Jordan Poole
Thompson’s relationship with Jordan Poole transcends typical teammate alliances, highlighted by moments of genuine mentorship. After a Warriors win in April 2022, Poole expressed his admiration:
“I just really wanted to show him I’m lil bro and I’m watching and I’m a fan for sure.”
—Jordan Poole
Thompson has consistently supported Poole, even in challenging periods. Reflecting on Poole’s resilience after a difficult shooting night, Thompson said:
“That reminded me of my younger self.”
—Klay Thompson
Despite Poole’s eventual trade away from Golden State, the connection remains strong, with Poole noting:
“I can text Steph. I can text Klay. I can call them… that doesn’t go anywhere.”
—Jordan Poole
This brotherhood is not only emotional but also influences Thompson’s approach to basketball and leadership, emphasizing the importance of loyalty and shared growth.
Dallas Mavericks’ Strategy: A New Offensive Identity Centered on Klay Thompson and D’Angelo Russell
The Mavericks’ decision to acquire D’Angelo Russell signifies more than a temporary injury replacement for Kyrie Irving. It represents a strategic attempt to recreate offensive opportunities that suit Klay Thompson’s strengths—particularly his off-ball movement and shooting prowess from the corners reminiscent of his peak years. Russell averaged 12.6 points and 5.1 assists last season between the Lakers and Nets, numbers that complement Thompson’s style by encouraging off-ball play and efficient spacing.
Surrounded by teammates like Cooper Flagg, showing promising rookie energy, and Anthony Davis anchoring the defense, Dallas appears to be cultivating a roster built for balanced offense and defense. Thompson’s evolution away from trying to generate his own ball-handling plays towards capitalizing on spot-up shooting aligns well with this roster strategy, improving the team’s overall offensive flow.
Enduring Respect and Loyalty Within the Splash Brotherhood
Thompson’s unwavering support for Jordan Poole extends even into moments of adversity, as highlighted after one unfortunate turnover in 2023 when Thompson pointed to the Warriors’ championship logo and affirmed:
“We don’t win this without Jordan.”
—Klay Thompson
This level of loyalty, rare in today’s high-stakes sports environment, underscores the tight-knit culture within the Splash Brothers’ legacy and their associated players. Thompson’s ability to transition from key player to mentor embodies the evolving roles experienced veterans play in shaping the next generation.
Prospects for the Mavericks: Will This Reunion Signal a New Era?
With Klay Thompson and D’Angelo Russell now sharing the court in Dallas, and the potential for Jordan Poole to join mid-season sparking fan excitement, the Mavericks could enter a transformative phase. Thompson’s presence offers more than veteran experience; it brings a history of championship success and unyielding commitment to team chemistry. This trio, rooted in past collaborations and mutual respect, might provide the spark Dallas needs to challenge the Western Conference’s elite.
As the season unfolds, the success of this reunion will depend on how well these players integrate their skills and mentorship roles within Dallas’s evolving lineup. Owner Mark Cuban faces mounting pressure to facilitate this synergy, potentially with a mid-season addition of Poole to fully revive the “STACHE BROS” dynamic and intensify the Mavericks’ offensive prowess.
The coming months will reveal if this blend of old connections and new ambitions can propel the Mavericks into serious contention. For now, the three-word message that started it all continues to resonate among fans and analysts alike—hinting that Klay Thompson’s impact in Dallas is just beginning.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Klay Thompson’s religion?
A. Thompson and his siblings grew up practicing the Catholic faith. At the age of 14, his family relocated to Ladera Ranch, California. He finished high school in 2008 at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, which is located in Rancho Santa Margarita.