WATCH: Rhyne Howard receives special message from Klay Thompson

Game respected game on Monday. Specifically, Golden State Warrior guard Klay Thompson respected Kentucky WBB legend Rhyne Howard.

Howard, who is now second on Kentucky Women’s Basketball’s all-time scoring list, was surprised with a message from one of her favorite players on Monday morning. Howard stood in awe as Thompson’s face popped up on the Memorial Coliseum big screen and complimented her game.

Greatness recognizes greatness🤝

We surprised @howard_rhyne with a video of @KlayThompson, her favorite player, congratulating her on 2,000 career points!

Her reaction💙#CrownHer 👑 pic.twitter.com/Ajk3oZALCU

— Kentucky WBB (@KentuckyWBB) February 14, 2022

“Congratulations on 2,000 points for your career. What an incredible accomplishment, one of only three (Kentucky) women to do that. That is special,” Thompson said in the video message. “I heard you’re a fan, and I appreciate your love for my game, and I just wanted to show you some love.”

Howard is averaging 19.9 points, 7.7 rebounds and 3.2 assists this season. As a result, scouts around the country expect Howard to be the first pick in the 2022 WNBA Draft. Thompson is a believer in Howard’s future.

“I know you’ll be at the next level very soon. I know you’ll be killing it there like you’re killing it in the SEC.”

Besides nearly passing out, Howard handled the message with grace. The Cheryl Miller Award nominee was grateful for Thompson’s support.

“That was wonderful. Everyone around me knows how much I love him and how big of a fan I am,” Howard said. “I just love the way he plays and the way he plays on both sides of the ball. He’s never taking any plays off. A lot of people overlook him sometimes, so I feel like that’s just more to love about him.”

Thompson concluded his message with some friendly banter and maybe even a challenge.

“Hopefully, I’ll get to Lexington. Get some [jump shots] up, a 3-point contest, whatever you wanna do,” Thompson said.

Thompson may be one of the greatest shooters of all time, but Howard runs Memorial Coliseum. No matter who wins, we’ll be tuned in.

Rhyne Howard will take the floor for Kentucky Women’s Basketball on Tuesday night at 6 p.m. against Mississippi State as the ‘Cats look to get their second win in a row. That game will be broadcast live in Lexington on the SEC Network +.