Klay Thompson On Recent Trip To WSU, "Pullman Will Always Be Home"

Klay Thompson, a legendary shooter in NBA history and a proud graduate of Washington State University (WSU), returned to Pullman last month for a memorable trip that involved blending nostalgia.

Mentoring and building connections with the next generation of Cougars. At Dallas Mavericks Media Day on Monday, Thompson stressed the importance of giving back to the community that helped him on his way to becoming an NBA superstar.

“I love going back to Wazzu. It will always be home for me,” Thompson said. “You can never forget about the people who supported you before all the glory, and Cougar Nation was there before I had any success on the pro level. So I always try to give my time back when I can.”

Spur-of-the-Moment Visit to Pullman

In August, Thompson spontaneously decided to visit Washington State University and contacted former Coug Ben Loewen to plan his return. Loewen, who had previously played under WSU head coach David Riley at Whitworth, connected Thompson directly to Riley. Riley stated that the reunion happened quickly.

“Klay reached out, got my number, and just wanted to come up and hoop with the guys,” Riley shared with Cougfan.com. “It was spur of the moment. He asked when the guys were in town, and it had been a couple years since he visited. He just wanted to come see the guys, meet everybody, and revisit the college days.”

The spontaneous decision led to a weekend filled with golf, basketball, mentorship, and memories.

Golf at Palouse Ridge with Cougar Players

Thompson began his trip by playing golf at Palouse Ridge Golf Course, accompanied by Cougar players Parker Gerrits and Simon Hildebrandt. Gerrits, a lifetime Cougar fan who idolized Thompson growing up, found the experience surreal.

“I knew I was golfing but I wasn’t told with who,” Gerrits recalled. “Coach Riley called and asked who on the team golfs. I said just me and Simon. The next day he said, ‘You’re golfing at 12:30 tomorrow.’ I started getting suspicious, but I didn’t know it would be Klay until Monday morning.”

Gerrits defeated the four-time NBA champion on the course to make the day even more memorable. Gerrits shot a 42 during the nine holes, while Thompson ended up with a 45. Although nervous, the moment was described as one of the five coolest experiences in Gerrits’ life.

Back on the Court with the Cougars

Thompson joined the team at practice after golf, where he scrimmaged with the players and demonstrated why his game is still relevant at the highest level. Thompson’s skill and competitive energy helped elevate the practice atmosphere even though he was operating under peak intensity.

“His big thing at the end of practice was just stay in the moment and enjoy it,” Riley said. “This is a place that’s home, and a lot of people came before him. You have to respect that and appreciate Pullman for everything it is. To hear that from him after playing with the guys was really cool.”

Riley noted the immediate impact of Thompson’s presence.

“Just seeing how he operates, the energy and pace he played with was important. He came in, played some golf, grabbed a burger at The Coug, and then when it was time to play, it was time to play. That rubs off on the guys.”

Mentorship and Wisdom from a Champion

Gerrits and Hildebrandt found playing basketball with Thompson to be a masterclass in professionalism.

“When he got to practice, he said, ‘Hey Park, in the pocket, on the laces, just give it to me,'” Gerrits recounted with a laugh. “I said, ‘Sir, yes sir!'”

Gerrits did not feel great about his own performance, but Thompson encouraged him and reminded him not to be too harsh on him.

“He told me, ‘You just played nine holes of golf and came straight to the gym. That’s not easy. Don’t beat yourself up. Tomorrow’s a whole new day. Put it in the past—you can’t change it.'”

Thompson’s influence extends beyond his on-court success, as this perspective highlights. His alma mater gains a tremendous amount of value from his ability to mentor and uplift younger players.

Full-Circle Moments for Cougar Nation

Thompson’s return, particularly touched those who idolized Thompson as a child. During this visit, Gerrits shared a photo from his earlier encounter with Thompson, which happened after the Warriors’ first championship in 2015. Gerrits saw the significance of persistence and the connection between alums and current athletes in that moment.

“It was surreal,” Gerrits said. “Just watching him, he doesn’t do anything flashy, but he’s elite at everything he does. The ball goes through the net differently when he shoots it.”

According to Coach Riley, who grew up rooting for the Golden State Warriors, hosting Thompson was both personally significant.

“To watch him with our guys, playing defense, hitting shots, and reminding them to enjoy every moment—that was special.”

Why Pullman Will Always Be Home for Thompson

Klay Thompson’s return to Washington State University is more than just revisiting the past; it’s an acknowledgment of the foundation that helped launch his career.

Before NBA championships, All-Star appearances, and historic shooting performances, the Pullman community was behind him. Thompson exhibited his loyalty and gratitude to Cougar Nation by playing golf with current players, scrimmaging with the team, and providing encouragement. His humility, authenticity, and competitive spirit served as a model for both players and fans, and his legacy at WSU will endure beyond his college years.

“Cougar Nation was there before the success, before the glory,” Thompson said. “That’s why Pullman will always be home.”

Conclusion: A Lasting Impact

Klay Thompson’s return to Washington State University wasn’t just a casual visit. The bond between alumni and the community that nurtured their growth was reminded by it. Golfing, scrimmaging, and learning from one of the NBA’s greatest shooters were experiences that Cougar players will carry with them into their careers and lives. Thompson’s connection to Pullman, which serves as a place of roots, respect, and inspiration, is a true testament to the lasting effect of college communities on shaping not only professional athletes but also leaders who make a difference.