Klay Thompson’s rookie campaign with the Golden State Warriors offered a glimpse of the sharpshooter he would eventually become, even if his game was still raw in spots. Drafted 11th overall in 2011, Thompson quickly carved out a role with his smooth stroke and confident perimeter shooting, averaging 12.5 points per game while hitting 41% from beyond the arc.
What stood out most was his poise—rare for a rookie—combined with his ability to move without the ball and knock down shots in rhythm. While his defense and shot creation needed refinement, Thompson’s first season confirmed he had the tools to grow into a cornerstone piece, foreshadowing the rise of the Splash Brothers era alongside Stephen Curry.
