“He Knows He’s Better Than That”: Stephen Curry on Klay Thompson’s Shimmy in Warriors vs. Mavericks Showdown
In a highly anticipated matchup that had fans buzzing, the Golden State Warriors faced off against the Dallas Mavericks in a thrilling contest that not only featured stellar basketball but also a touch of playful rivalry between two of the NBA’s most beloved stars—Stephen Curry of the Warriors and Klay Thompson, who was shockingly wearing a Mavericks jersey for the first time.
The game had all the makings of a classic: both teams fighting for playoff positioning in the Western Conference, star power on full display, and plenty of drama to keep the fans on the edge of their seats. What no one expected, however, was the turn of events that led to one of the most talked-about moments of the season: Klay Thompson, now in a Mavericks uniform, pulling off his signature shimmy after hitting a deep three-pointer in the first half against his long-time teammate, Curry.
Thompson, who had spent his entire career with the Warriors until this unexpected trade to Dallas, had never faced Curry in a regular-season game wearing a different jersey. Their history together made this encounter emotional, but Thompson’s playful side still shone through. After hitting a particularly smooth three-pointer over Curry late in the second quarter, Thompson spun away from the basket, threw his hands up, and broke into his signature shimmy dance—an iconic move that had made him a fan favorite during his time with the Warriors.
The crowd went wild, but the moment was especially notable for the reaction from Curry, who found himself on the receiving end of the shimmy. As always, Curry maintained his sense of humor, despite the unorthodox circumstances. During his post-game interview, Curry couldn’t help but poke fun at his old friend and teammate with a grin on his face.
“He knows he’s better than that,” Curry said, referencing the shimmy. “I mean, you hit a big shot in a game against me, and you gotta dance? C’mon, Klay. You’re one of the best shooters in the world—don’t get distracted by the dance moves. I guess it’s a new chapter for him, but we all know he’s still got that swagger, even if it’s for a new team.”
Curry’s comment, delivered with his usual mixture of respect and playful sarcasm, immediately resonated with the media and fans alike. His jab at Thompson’s shimmy wasn’t an insult but rather a testament to their long-running friendship and deep mutual respect. Despite being on opposing teams for the first time, the bond between the two was clear, and Curry’s lighthearted remark underscored the unique chemistry they shared as former teammates and now competitors.
Thompson, always known for his laid-back personality, didn’t take offense. In fact, he responded with a smile when asked about Curry’s comment in his own post-game interview, acknowledging that the shimmy was part of his fun-loving persona and a way to keep things light on the court, even in such a highly charged game.
“That’s just how I play, man,” Thompson said with a chuckle. “If I hit a big shot, I’m gonna show some energy. It’s part of the game. But, yeah, I know Steph’s just messing with me. He’s my brother, and he’s right—I’m a shooter first. But I also like to have fun, and if that means shimmying a little, then so be it. It’s all love.”
The game itself was a thrilling affair that went down to the wire, with the Mavericks ultimately edging out the Warriors in a narrow victory. Luka Dončić led the way for Dallas, recording a triple-double and keeping the Warriors’ defense on their toes. Curry finished with a stellar 30-point performance, but it was Thompson’s contributions in the first half that kept the Mavericks within striking distance.
Despite the loss, Curry and the Warriors were quick to acknowledge Thompson’s role in the Mavericks’ success. His shooting prowess, even in a different uniform, was as lethal as ever, and his ability to stretch the floor was a major factor in keeping the game close. For all the emotions tied to Thompson’s departure from the Warriors, it was clear that his skills hadn’t diminished, and the Mavericks were lucky to have him.
Thompson’s shimmy, however, was more than just a celebration of a well-made shot; it was a symbol of his unwavering confidence and the unshakeable belief in his game, even in unfamiliar territory. While the Warriors’ faithful will always remember him as one-half of the Splash Brothers, the shimmy had become an extension of his personality—a way to keep the mood light even in the most intense moments. It’s part of what made Thompson such a beloved figure in Golden State, and it’s something he has continued to carry with him, even as he takes on new challenges with the Mavericks.
For Curry, Thompson’s move to Dallas may have brought some personal rivalry, but it was clear that his respect for Thompson’s game hasn’t wavered one bit. In fact, Curry’s comments illustrated a deeper truth: while the shimmy may be a playful distraction, it’s Thompson’s ability to perform at the highest level that truly sets him apart.
In the end, Curry’s remark about Thompson “knowing he’s better than that” wasn’t just a jab at his dancing; it was a subtle acknowledgment of how much Thompson has accomplished as a player. The shimmy, after all, is just a small part of Thompson’s legacy, one that includes five NBA All-Star selections, two championships, and countless clutch performances.
As for the Warriors, their loss to the Mavericks was a reminder of the new challenges they face in a post-Thompson era. But no matter where Thompson plays, whether it’s for the Warriors or the Mavericks, his legacy as one of the greatest shooters the NBA has ever seen is secure. And as long as there’s a basketball court, we can be sure the shimmy will always be a part of his game.
Curry and Thompson may be on different teams now, but their bond remains unbroken—cemented by years of shared triumphs, playful banter, and a mutual understanding that their greatness goes far beyond the dance moves.
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