NBA star Klay Thompson is reportedly nearing a deal with the Miami Heat, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. The move comes after Thompson, 36, and the Dallas Mavericks reached a buyout agreement on his contract.
Thompson became an unrestricted free agent following the agreement. His previous contract with the Mavericks was set to expire next year and was valued at $17.5 million. Thompson reportedly expressed a desire to play for a team with championship aspirations, prompting the buyout.
The four-time NBA champion is expected to sign with the Heat after he clears waivers. This move adds another prolific shooter to a Miami team that recently made significant roster changes, acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis from the Milwaukee Bucks in June.
The Heat appear to have made Thompson their top free agent priority this summer as they aim to build a roster around Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. The acquisition signals Miami's aggressive approach to strengthening their team for a championship run.
Thompson's transition to a new team follows his public breakup with rapper Megan Thee Stallion, which became widely known around April. The rapper announced the end of their relationship on Instagram, citing issues of trust, fidelity, and respect.
Thompson and Megan Thee Stallion publicly confirmed their relationship in the summer of the previous year and were considered a prominent celebrity couple. Their romance first gained attention when Thompson was seen in the background of one of her social media posts, leading to their official acknowledgment on Instagram.
Earlier speculation about the couple's relationship status, including a potential move to cohabitation, arose from an Instagram post by Megan Thee Stallion in October. A photo shared by the artist depicted two hands forming a heart with keys, which many fans interpreted as a sign of the couple moving in together.