Coach K: Klay ‘one of the great, complete players on this planet'

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In 2014-15, Klay Thompson averaged 21.7 points per game and became an All-Star for the first time. He was named Third-Team All-NBA.

Last year, the Warriors' shooting guard averaged 22.1 points per game was an All-Star and Third-Team All-NBA selection again.

“Klay is one of the great, complete players on this planet,” USA Basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski told reporters on Wednesday. “He’s more than a shooter, he’s an outstanding offensive player who loves to play defense — and never really seems to get tired.

"He has a great motor."

[RELATED: With Durant on board, Klay ready to sacrifice like Manu Ginobili]

Thompson made the second most 3-pointers last season (276), while shooting 42.5 percent from beyond the arc.

Through the Warriors' first 17 playoff games, he averaged 26.2 points on 45 percent shooting.

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After practice Wednesday, Klay was told about Coach K's comments.

“Wow, that means a lot,” he said. “Coach K’s words, he’s seen so much basketball it means a lot. He’s a joy to play for, especially how prideful he is to be the coach of the USA — he doesn’t have to do this, but he wants to.

"That pride of will trickles down to everybody else on this team.”

Thompson is also considered one of the best defensive shooting guards in the NBA.

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