The Dallas Mavericks made a significant move in free agency by signing future Hall of Famer Klay Thompson to a three-year, $50 million contract, joining forces with Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving. Since Irving wears Thompson’s usual No. 11 in Dallas, Thompson chose to don No. 31, paying tribute to one of his idols.
During his introductory press conference on Tuesday morning, Thompson discussed his decision to switch to No. 31. He humorously mentioned that Kyrie took his number but expressed excitement about the change. Thompson noted that several great players have worn No. 31 for the Mavericks, including Jason Terry, who won a championship with the team. Thompson highlighted similarities in their playing styles, particularly in off-guard positioning and shooting. He also acknowledged Nick Van Exel, who had a successful stint with the Mavericks wearing the same number, and Reggie Miller, a player Thompson admired greatly.
Thompson recounted watching Miller’s footage extensively as a teenager, especially admiring his clutch shooting and fearlessness. Miller’s memorable game-winning shots and his iconic moment against Michael Jordan in the Eastern Conference Finals were particularly inspiring for Thompson. Wearing No. 31, Thompson aims to honor Miller, who is just ahead of him on the all-time three-pointers made list. Thompson, currently sixth all-time, is on track to surpass Miller if he maintains his average of 3.5 three-pointers per game, which could happen about 22 games into the season.
Thompson’s father, Mychal Thompson, mentioned in a radio interview that Reggie Miller was one of Klay’s basketball idols, making this number switch special for him. If Klay can emulate Jason Terry’s success and win a championship wearing No. 31, fans might find it easier to embrace him in his new jersey.
