Klay Thompson Gets His Revenge as Mavericks Eliminate Kings in NBA Play-In Tournament

Klay Thompson finally got his sweet revenge as the Dallas Mavericks defeated the Sacramento Kings 120-106 in the 2025 NBA Play-In Tournament. Returning to the Golden 1 Center, the same arena where his Warriors were eliminated last year, Thompson put on a clinic with 23 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists in 33 minutes of action.

He shot a blazing 8-of-11 from the field, including 5 three-pointers, helping the Mavericks push the Kings out of playoff contention. “It feels great to exorcise those demons here.

Oh my God!” Klay shouted postgame.  

Read More: https://www.esnnews.com/post/anthony-davis-mavericks-win-hawks-play-in-race The win not only advanced the Mavericks in the play-in but also symbolized personal redemption for Thompson.

Last year, he endured one of the worst performances of his career at the same venue—going scoreless and missing all 10 of his shots as the Warriors fell to the Kings. That haunting memory is now replaced with satisfaction.

“I don’t judge myself on one game. Even elite players have bad nights,” said Thompson, who ranks fifth all-time in made three-pointers with 2,697.

Read More: https://www.esnnews.com/post/trae-young-returns-oklahoma-assistant-general-manager-donation Dallas (39-43) is now just one victory away from clinching the eighth seed in the Western Conference.

They will face the Memphis Grizzlies next, with the winner earning the final playoff spot to challenge the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite a turbulent season marked by major trades and key injuries, the Mavericks have survived to fight another day.

“We’ve had a wild ride this season, but we’re still standing,” said the four-time NBA champion.