Klay Thompson’s NBA-record 37 points in a single quarter against the Sacramento Kings on January 23, 2015. Thompson made 13-of-13 field goals including 9-of-9 from three-point range in the third quarter alone, scoring more points in 12 minutes than most players score in entire games. The performance remains the highest-scoring quarter in NBA history.
The Quarter
Klay entered the third quarter with just 9 points. Over the next 12 minutes, he didn’t miss a single shot, draining nine consecutive three-pointers (often from 25+ feet) and four layups. He broke George Gervin’s 33-point quarter record set in 1978. The Warriors outscored the Kings 41-18 in the quarter.
Cultural Impact
The performance epitomized Klay’s unconscious “microwave scoring” ability. Teammates and opponents stood in awe as each shot swished. The phrase “Klay heat check” became synonymous with unstoppable shooting. Video clips of the quarter became required viewing for basketball fans.
Legacy
ESPN ranks it among the greatest individual quarter performances ever. Klay finished with 52 points in 33 minutes. The record still stands and is considered nearly unbreakable. The moment cemented Klay’s reputation as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history alongside Stephen Curry.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nyBpt9tRsg https://www.espn.com/nba/recap?gameId=400578986