Facing the Indiana Pacers at the Oracle Arena, Klay Thompson achieved the incredible milestone of scoring 60 points in a mere 29 minutes. Thompson became the NBA player with the highest point total in under 30 minutes of play.
Before Klay, the record-holder for this feat was the legendary Larry Bird, who scored 43 points. With this remarkable achievement, Thompson also surpassed his own personal record for the most points scored in a single game (previously 54 points).
Klay Thompson’s performance drew comparisons to Kobe Bryant’s iconic 81-point game on January 22, 2006, against the Toronto Raptors. However, Thompson managed to outscore Kobe after the first two and three quarters. He had 40 points by the end of the second quarter and reached 60 points at the conclusion of the third quarter. He was given the rest of the game off as the outcome was secure, undoubtedly preventing the record from going even higher.
Thompson scored 17 points in the first half, 23 points in the second half, and an additional 20 points in the third quarter, becoming the third Golden State player to score 60 points in a game. It was also the highest point total by a player facing the Indiana Pacers in NBA history.
“He moves without the ball so well,” praised Pacers coach Nate McMillan of Thompson’s performance after the game. “We just simply could not stop him. None of the strategies we tried were successful.”
Klay Thompson’s phenomenal record-breаking performance in this game has reignited fans’ belief in his return to peak form, solidifying his status as one of the most outstanding shooting guards in the NBA.