OKC Thunder Seemingly Strike Again After Summer League Showing
The Oklahoma City Thunder entered the offseason looking to make minimal changes to their roster after winning a championship last season and instead lcok in their core for the foreseeable future.
That is exactly what the Thunder did as they signed Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams to max contract extensions, locking in their young core that they hope can help them build a dynasty in Oklahoma City.
While the Thunder have made little to no moves thus far this offseason, one of their selections in the 2025 NBA Draft has been showcasing his talent during the Summer League.
That player is Brooks Barnhizer, who the Thunder selected 44th overall in the 2025 draft out of Northwestern.
In five Summer League games thus far, Barnhizer is averaging nine points, nearly two assists, six rebounds, three steals and one block per game while shooting 50% from the field and 28% from three.
Of course, the Thunder have already signed Barnhizer to a two-wat contract for next season but with his performances in Summer League thus far, he may end up being signed to a standard contract at some point next season like they did with Ajay Mitchell last year.
For Barnhizer, he has not only showed off his offensive abilities that he was known for in college with the Wildcats but he has also proven to be a great defender, which is exactly what the Thunder are looking for on their roster.
He is expected to begin next season in the G League with the Oklahoma City Blue but his skillset translates well to the NBA level and he could see some time with the Thunder next season.
With his performances thus far, it appears Sam Presti may have found yet another diamond in the rough in the second round of the draft to go along with Thomas Sorber in the first round, who has not played in Summer League due to injury.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
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