Two-time Olympic gold medalist Klay Thompson will ‘seriously consider’ switching federations and playing for the Bahamas in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The NBA star wishes to fulfill the dreams of his father, Mychal Thompson.
Despite his primary focus being on the upcoming NBA season, Thompson stated that he will thoroughly contemplate the decision once an offer arrives from the Bahamas.
“When that time comes, I will give it serious consideration just because of what the Bahamas’ meant to the Thompson family, especially my father,” said Thompson in a press conference for ANTA’s World Tour at the Peninsula Manila on Thursday afternoon.
“He never had the chance to play for the national team just ‘cause they just didn’t have a chance back then in the 70s and the 80s. And now my brother’s coaching with them is also very cool, but right now, really focused on the [NBA] season,” he added.
Beyond his familial ties, the four-time NBA champion’s motivation to play for the Bahamas is fueled by the nation’s success in earning a spot in the Qualifying Tournament for the 2024 Paris Games by defeating perennial contenders Argentina, 82-75.
Thompson also expressed his appreciation for the achievements of the Bahamian men’s basketball team in recent weeks, despite facing strong opposition and deploying an NBA-laden squad featuring players like Indiana Pacers guard Buddy Hield; Los Angeles Clippers sniper Eric Gordon; and Phoenix Suns center DeAndre Ayton, all led by Warriors assistant coach Chris de Marco.
“When it comes to the Bahamian basketball, I couldn’t be more proud of what they’ve accomplished in the past few weeks, especially Chris De Marco, Buddy Hield, DeAndre Ayton, Eric Gordon, and the rest of the Bahamians,” said the league-leading three-point shooter with 301 three-pointers made last NBA season.
“Those guys had the biggest win in our country’s history as far as beating Argentina twice on their home soil, not an easy task. Argentina is one of the best teams in the world, and it’s just gonna do wonders for the country.”
Thompson, who secured three gold medals while representing the United States in the 2009 FIBA U-19 World Championship, 2014 FIBA World Cup, and 2016 Olympics, also praised the unselfish playing style of the USA team in the current global showcase.
Guided by USA head coach Steve Kerr since 2014, the ANTA global ambassador acknowledged that the United States’ undefeated run in the World Cup would not have been possible without the accomplished tactician.
“Team USA, I mean, they’re some of the best young players in the NBA.
“Steve [Kerr] is doing a great job and the great thing about when you watch Team USA is the guys put their egos aside, they don’t care who leads the team in scoring, in rebounding, and steals, all that matters is when you play for Team USA is winning gold,” explained Thompson.
Thompson and Looney will embark on a three-day trip to Manila for ANTA’s Shock the Game Finals. They will also host a 25-player exclusive basketball camp featuring renowned athletes from the PBA, UAAP, and NCAA. (Ernest Martin Tuazon)
