Rockets Star Amen Thompson Credits LeBron Fanhood for Warriors Rivalry

Amen Thompson, a rising NBA star for the Houston Rockets, has openly shared that his early disdain for the Golden State Warriors stemmed from his admiration for LeBron James. Growing up a LeBron fan during the intense Cavaliers-Warriors rivalry from 2015 to 2018, Thompson initially liked the Warriors but turned against them once they became LeBron's primary Finals opponents. This rivalry, marked by four consecutive NBA Finals meetings and the Warriors winning three titles, shaped Thompson's competitive fire and loyalty. Despite being a native of Oakland, Thompson's Rockets faced the Warriors again in the 2025 NBA Playoffs, where the Warriors eliminated Houston in a seven-game series, further fueling his dislike. Thompson's candid reflections highlight how LeBron's legacy continues to influence the new generation of NBA players, even as they now compete against the superstars who once defined their childhood rivalries. With recent additions to his team, Thompson aims to advance deeper in future playoffs, continuing his journey against the Warriors and other top contenders.