Thompson started his career with Canterbury in New Zealand, but after his route to the team was blocked by the return of Brad Thorn and the presence of Chris Jack, he signed for the Sanyo Wild Knights in 2004.

In 2007 he qualified through residency to play for Japan and made his debut in April against Hong Kong.

[2] He then became a regular member of the side for all of John Kirwan's reign as Japan coach between 2007 and 2011 representing them at two World Cups.

He was recalled briefly in November 2012 where he was called up to the squad as an injury replacement for Toshizumi Kitagawa and started in Japan's first away wins in Europe against Romania and Georgia.

His sister Anna Thompson is a member of the New Zealand national netball team, the Silver Ferns.