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Klay Thompson has revealed the emotional story behind his most prized piece of basketball memorabilia: a framed, signed, game-worn jersey belonging to the late Kobe Bryant. Thompson shared the story during a home tour with streamer and rapper Maxwell Elliot Dent, popularly known as PlaqueBoyMax.
The former Golden State Warriors star showed PlaqueBoyMax around his reported $10 million home, with cameras capturing several personal moments along the way. However, the most meaningful part of the tour came when Thompson stopped to discuss Bryant’s Los Angeles Lakers jersey.
Klay Thompson Reveals His Powerful Kobe Bryant Keepsake
The jersey is an old-school yellow-and-white Lakers uniform bearing Bryant’s iconic No. 24. Thompson explained that he received it after the final game he played against Bryant in 2016, shortly before the Lakers legend retired.
“This is my most prized memorabilia possession right here,” Thompson said while praising Bryant as the “GOAT” and the “Mamba.” He added that he was fortunate enough to obtain Bryant’s game-worn jersey, which included a personal inscription.
The size of the jersey also surprised PlaqueBoyMax. Thompson laughed while explaining that Bryant was a powerful athlete who stood 6 feet 6 inches and weighed approximately 220 pounds.
For Thompson, though, the value of the jersey goes far beyond its rarity. It represents the respect of a player he admired from childhood and a personal connection with one of the greatest competitors in NBA history.
The Emotional Message Kobe Bryant Left for Thompson
Bryant’s inscription made the gift especially significant. Written on the jersey was a message recognizing Thompson’s development as a player: “It’s been a pleasure watching you grow into the player you are. Keep going! Keep going!”
That message carried enormous weight for Thompson. Bryant was widely known for his demanding standards, intense preparation and relentless approach to basketball. Receiving encouragement from Bryant suggested that Thompson’s work ethic and two-way ability had made a lasting impression.
Thompson grew up with a close connection to the Lakers. His father, Mychal Thompson, played center for Los Angeles and later became a radio commentator for the franchise. That background allowed Klay to watch Bryant regularly at Staples Center, now known as Crypto.com Arena.
When Thompson entered the NBA in 2011, Bryant was approaching the final stage of his celebrated career. Even so, Bryant recognized the younger guard’s potential and followed his progress closely.
A Surprising Shanghai Encounter That Changed Everything
During the home-tour conversation, Thompson also recalled a memorable meeting with Bryant during the 2013 Global Games in Shanghai, China. The encounter happened late at night while Thompson was dealing with jet lag.
Thompson said he went to the hotel weight room at approximately 11:30 p.m. to complete a workout. While performing dumbbell bench presses, he felt someone tap him on the shoulder. The person was Bryant, dressed in a Nike outfit, hoodie and casual training gear.
After greeting Thompson, Bryant briefly shared the training space with him. Thompson remembered being stunned that Bryant was there and said he was thrilled to share the room with his childhood idol.
Three years later, Bryant explained why that moment had stayed with him. According to Thompson’s recollection, Bryant said he knew Klay would become a quality player after seeing him take his workout seriously in Shanghai.
“I knew Klay was going to be a good player when I saw him in Shanghai in the weight room taking the game super serious,” Bryant reportedly told him. “I thought I was by myself working out, but he was in there, and I knew he had a bright future.”
Why the Kobe Connection Still Matters
Bryant’s influence can be seen throughout Thompson’s career. The four-time NBA champion became one of the league’s premier shooters, earned multiple All-Star selections and established himself among the NBA’s all-time leaders in made three-pointers.
His career also reflects the perseverance Bryant valued. Thompson returned from both a torn ACL and a serious Achilles injury, eventually helping the Warriors win another championship after a lengthy absence.
The framed jersey is therefore more than a collector’s item. It symbolizes mentorship, discipline and the lasting impact of Bryant’s example. For Thompson, the inscription serves as a reminder to continue pushing forward, even through the most difficult setbacks.
As per Basketball Network, the story was published on August 21, 2026. It offers a rare glimpse into Thompson’s private collection while highlighting the deep admiration he continues to hold for Kobe Bryant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Klay Thompson’s most prized memorabilia?
Klay Thompson’s most prized memorabilia is a framed, signed, game-worn No. 24 Los Angeles Lakers jersey from Kobe Bryant.
When did Thompson receive Kobe Bryant’s jersey?
Thompson said he received the jersey after his final matchup against Bryant in 2016.
What did Kobe Bryant write on the jersey?
Bryant wrote, “It’s been a pleasure watching you grow into the player you are. Keep going! Keep going!”
When did Thompson first share a memorable workout with Bryant?
Thompson recalled meeting Bryant in a Shanghai weight room during the 2013 Global Games.
Why was Bryant’s message important to Thompson?
The message was meaningful because Bryant recognized Thompson’s work ethic, discipline and potential during the early years of his NBA career.
