After a 2024 season back with the team that originally drafted him, veteran center Tristan Thompson is preparing for yet another stint with the Cleveland Cavaliers. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Thompson has agreed to a one-year contract, marking his continued role with the franchise where he built much of his NBA legacy.
Thompson, now 33, was originally selected by the Cavaliers with the fourth overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft after a standout college career at the University of Texas. Over the course of 10 seasons with Cleveland, Thompson developed into a key piece of the team, most notably helping the franchise secure its first-ever NBA championship in 2016. His contributions on the boards and in the paint earned him a lasting place in Cavaliers history, where he currently ranks fifth all-time in games played.
Following his initial tenure with Cleveland from 2011 to 2020, Thompson’s career saw him play for several teams, including the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, and Chicago Bulls, from 2021 to 2023. However, in 2024, he made his return to the Cavaliers, providing veteran leadership and solid bench minutes.
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During that season, he averaged 3.3 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1 assist per game over 49 contests. While his numbers weren’t as prolific as earlier in his career, Thompson remained a reliable presence in the rotation. His season was interrupted by a 25-game suspension for violating the NBA’s performance-enhancing drug policy, but he still managed to contribute upon his return.
Thompson’s value to Cleveland extends beyond his stats. His experience, championship pedigree, and deep ties to the organization make him a valuable asset, particularly as the Cavaliers look to develop their young core while staying competitive in the Eastern Conference.
The Cavaliers are set to open the 2025 NBA season on October 23 against the Toronto Raptors, and Thompson’s veteran presence will likely be a key factor in bolstering the team’s depth as they aim for a strong start to the year.
For Thompson, it’s another opportunity to cement his legacy in Cleveland, a city where his career has thrived for over a decade.
