Klay Thompson: "The 2017 Warriors would beat the '96 Bulls"

Klay Thompson: “The 2017 Warriors would beat the ’96 Bulls”

14/08/202609:22

The former Golden State star believes the Warriors’ unmatched offensive firepower would edge Michael Jordan’s legendary Chicago team in a seven-game series.

One of the greatest debates in NBA history has resurfaced, and Klay Thompson knows exactly where he stands.

Asked about a hypothetical matchup between the 2016-17 Golden State Warriors and the 1995-96 Chicago Bulls, Thompson said he believes the Warriors would come out on top.

“The firepower we had was once in a lifetime, with two MVPs in Steph Curry and Kevin Durant, myself playing off the ball, Draymond Green facilitating, and Andre Iguodala doing everything. I’d give the edge to the Dubs because our shot-making might separate us. But it would definitely go seven games.”

The 1995-96 Bulls are widely regarded as one of the greatest teams ever assembled, finishing with a then-record 72 regular-season wins before capturing their fourth NBA championship under Phil Jackson. Alongside Michael Jordan, the roster featured Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Toni Kukoc, Ron Harper, Steve Kerr, and Luc Longley.

Klay Thompson was asked if the 1996 Bulls could beat the 2017 Warriors 👀
“I’mma give the edge to the Dubs, just because I think our shot making might separate us, but it would definitely go seven games.” pic.twitter.com/eQ3Dl9pJQT

— MAL (@MindOfBron) August 14, 2026

The 2016-17 Warriors, meanwhile, added Kevin Durant to a core that had already won 73 games the previous season. Led by Curry, Thompson, Green, Iguodala, and Durant, Golden State dominated the league and posted an unprecedented 16-1 playoff record, defeating LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers in five games to win the NBA title.

The debate between the 1996 Bulls and the 2017 Warriors remains one of basketball’s greatest hypothetical matchups and is likely to continue for generations.