This summer, Klay Thompson, former Golden State Warriors star, has not only been in the headlines for his relationship with musician Megan Thee Stallion but has also enjoyed reconnecting with old teammates. An outing on the San Francisco Bay recently saw Thompson reunite with one of his close former Warriors, highlighting the strong bond formed during their time together on the team.

Friendship Rekindled on the Water

On a recent Sunday, Klay Thompson was spotted in an Instagram story alongside Moses Moody, the Warriors’ 2021 first-round pick and rising shooting guard. Moody, often considered one of the younger players mentored by Thompson, has benefited greatly from his veteran teammate’s guidance. Their relationship stands out in the NBA, where many connections can be fleeting, because Thompson’s genuine care and commitment to those around him are apparent.

During a 2024 interview on The Draymond Green Show, Moses Moody described Thompson as a “real dude” whose actions come from sincerity rather than image or motives. Moody said about Thompson,

“Everybody talks about him like a free spirit and this and that, but Klay is really just a real dude. He doesn’t do anything for any ulterior motives. He’s not doing this because it looks good, he’s doing it because he wants to. That’s been my dog since I’ve been here.”

He continued to praise their authentic friendship, sharing,

“He’ll let you on the boat because he wants to hang out with you for a while. Not because of any other reason. We still be playing chess and stuff all the time. It’s just an authentic relationship with an authentic dude.”

Maintaining Competitive Spirit Despite Friendship

Though the reunion showcased a warm friendship, their competitive nature remains intact. Draymond Green, the Warriors’ veteran leader, made it clear that when Thompson faces off against his former teammates in games, his intensity does not waver.

Green explained,

“Obviously we all love Klay, but to love Klay is to also know that he’s going to come in there trying to murder us.”

He added,

“He’s not trying to be afraid. He’s going to be trying to run you to the post, he’s going to be on all of that.”

Moses Moody echoed Green’s sentiment, clarifying how their friendship fuels competition rather than diminishes it. Moody stated,

“You know how everybody talks about, like saying you’re playing against your friend or brother, whatever it is,”

then added,

“And then everybody be like, ‘oh, they’re playing buddy ball’. But when you really dealing with your brother, you play harder than when you play against anybody else. Like, you know, you want to go at it with him.”

This dynamic between Thompson and his former teammates not only highlights their respect and trust off the court but also their intense desire to excel when they meet as opponents, making their matchups compelling to watch.

The Lasting Impact of Klay Thompson’s Leadership

Klay Thompson’s return to the spotlight this summer, both in his personal life and through moments like the reunion on the San Francisco Bay, underscores the lasting influence he has had on those around him. His mentorship of Moses Moody points to the legacy he continues to build beyond his on-court achievements as a four-time NBA champion with the Warriors.

Reconnecting with teammates in personal settings reinforces the meaningful relationships cultivated within the Warriors organization, while their competitiveness ensures that games remain fierce and engaging. As Thompson’s career continues, fans and teammates alike are likely to witness further moments of camaraderie intertwined with the intense desire to compete at the highest level.