In a moment that transcended basketball and tugged at the heartstrings of fans everywhere, Klay Thompson and the Golden State Warriors shared the sad news that Thompson’s beloved dog, Rocco, has passed away at the age of 13.
To many, Rocco wasn’t just a pet — he was part of the Warriors family. Over the years, the chocolate Labrador retriever became a symbol of calm, comfort, and quiet strength in the life of one of the NBA’s most iconic sharpshooters. With the announcement of Rocco’s passing, fans, teammates, and fellow athletes took to social media to share their condolences and celebrate the special bond between Klay and his four-legged companion.
A Bond Beyond Basketball
Klay Thompson’s relationship with Rocco has been well-documented over the years. In interviews, social media posts, and even team content, Rocco was ever-present — whether walking alongside Klay into the Chase Center, riding on the team plane, or lounging next to him during post-practice interviews.
Thompson, known for his laid-back demeanor and introverted personality, often described Rocco as his best friend and closest companion. In the high-pressure world of professional sports, where games, media attention, and constant travel can take their toll, Rocco was a source of grounding for Klay — loyal, patient, and always waiting with that calm Labrador smile.
“This dog has been through everything with me,” Klay once said in a 2021 interview. “The wins, the injuries, the recovery, the doubts. He’s been my rock through it all.”
Through Triumphs and Trials
Rocco was by Klay’s side during the Warriors’ dynasty run — from their first championship in 2015 through their 73-win season, and the back-to-back titles that followed. He was also there during the difficult years — when Klay tore his ACL in the 2019 NBA Finals, and again when he suffered an Achilles tear in 2020. As Klay fought through the grueling recovery process, fans often saw him walking the beaches or the Bay trails with Rocco at his side.
“He was part of the rehab,” Klay said in a 2022 Instagram Live. “He got me outside when I didn’t want to move. I’d wake up feeling low, and he’d just be there with that look like, ‘Let’s go, man. Let’s walk. Let’s live.’ I owe him so much.”
Indeed, for fans who followed Thompson through those injury-ridden seasons, Rocco became something of a silent mascot. When Klay returned to the court in January 2022 after more than two years away, his postgame celebration included a long walk with Rocco, captured in photos that became viral moments of joy and resilience.
A Member of the Warriors Family
The Golden State Warriors themselves recognized Rocco not just as Klay’s dog, but as part of the team. He appeared in promotional videos, team holiday cards, and community events. During one of the Warriors’ media days, Rocco famously stole the spotlight by casually trotting onto the court and sitting by Klay’s side as reporters snapped photos.
Coach Steve Kerr once joked, “We should’ve put Rocco on the roster. He’s been more consistent than half our guys. And he never misses a practice.”
While said in jest, the sentiment was sincere. Rocco’s presence around the Warriors’ facilities brought smiles and a sense of family. He was part of the culture that helped the franchise become not just a winning team, but one grounded in human connection and genuine joy.
A Community in Mourning
When the news of Rocco’s passing broke, tributes poured in from across the basketball world. Teammates past and present — from Stephen Curry to Draymond Green, Andre Iguodala to Kevin Durant — posted throwback photos, messages of love, and acknowledgments of how special Rocco was to Klay and to them.
Stephen Curry wrote on Instagram, “Rest easy, Rocco. You were the realest one. Always there, always chill. Sending love to my brother Klay — I know how much he loved you.”
Fans, too, shared memories of Rocco, recalling moments they’d seen the dog on TV, in Klay’s Instagram posts, or walking near Oracle Arena or Chase Center. For many, Rocco became a symbol of peace — a steady companion through years of ups and downs, joy and heartbreak.
Saying Goodbye
Klay has not yet made a long public statement, but the Warriors shared a short, heartfelt message on social media along with a few treasured photos:
“Rocco Thompson — a loyal friend, a part of our team, and a true Warrior in every sense. He brought peace, strength, and joy to everyone he met. Our hearts are with Klay as we remember 13 incredible years with a good boy who made all of our lives a little brighter.”
No words can fully capture the loss of a companion like Rocco. But his legacy lives on — not in stats or highlights, but in the moments of quiet strength, loyal companionship, and unconditional love that marked his life alongside one of the game’s greats.
Final Thoughts
In the world of professional sports, stories often revolve around wins, losses, and stats. But sometimes, the most powerful stories are the ones that remind us of our humanity. The bond between Klay Thompson and Rocco was real, honest, and deeply moving — and it’s clear that Rocco’s presence will be missed far beyond the hardwood.
Rest in peace, Rocco. You were more than just a dog. You were a friend, a healer, a legend.
