Devin Booker and Paul George in bitter exchange after Klay Thompson comment

10 August 2023 , 16:14

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Devin Booker gave his verdict after Klay Thompson opened up on the infamous trash talk incident to Paul George (Image: AP)

In a candid interview on Paul George's podcast, Klay Thompson opened up about his regret over taunting Devin Booker during a game between the Golden State Warriors and the Phoenix Suns.

Thompson, a four-time NBA champion, admitted that his actions were wrong and that he reflects on the incident with remorse. Thompson is known for his low-key trash-talking on the court and was asked by George about his favourite barb directed at another player in the league.

Before he could answer, George reminded him of the confrontation with Booker by flashing four fingers, symbolising Thompson's championship rings. Recalling the incident, Thompson acknowledged that Suns star Booker was outplaying him during the game.

"Yeah, I was in my feelings, though, and Book was busting my a** that day. I was not where I needed to be," he told George's Podcast P show.

Booker had a game-high 34 points while Thompson struggled, finishing with only two points on 1-for-8 shooting. Thompson expressed regret for his actions, admitting that flaunting his four rings was unnecessary.

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"You know stuff doesn’t age well, and that didn’t age well for me", he said. "Like, I don’t need to be flexing four rings, bro, like everybody know that. That’s on Wikipedia.

"My game wasn't where it was at, and we all get insecure at times. I'm man enough to admit that we all have our moments of weakness. I'm not really proud of that one."

Despite the incident, Thompson spoke highly of Booker's talent and work ethic. "I see Devin Booker, and I should be, like, man, I should be proud of this young man. Like, the work he’s put in," he added.

"He survived a tough regime in Phoenix where everyone's gettin’ traded, he’s playing for a new coach every year, but now he’s a franchise player, ’cause he just kept workin’. So, I admire the guys who have work ethic like that, you know?”

Klay Thompson was ejected following the incident

Booker responded to Thompson's admission via Instagram, sending him a salute emoji. In a separate comment, he tagged George and asked "Is that the answer u was lookin for?"

George gave his verdict on the matter during a live stream: "My thoughts on Booker's comments? I mean, he didn't really say nothin' other than, 'is that what you wanted to hear?' I don't really care.

"That's Klay's answer. You know what I mean; that's Klay's answer. I asked a question, Klay gave his response. That's Klay's answer. I don't know what that was supposed to mean. Sorry a** response, but I don't know what that was supposed to mean."

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Matthew Abbott