The Oklahoma City Thunder kicked off their Summer League campaign on July 8th in Salt Lake City, engaging in a three-game, three-night extravaganza. After the dust settled in Salt Lake City, the Thunder emerged with a 2-1 record, securing victories over the Utah Jazz and Memphis Grizzlies while suffering a lone defeat at the hands of the Philadelphia 76ers. The team then packed their bags and headed to Las Vegas for the highly anticipated NBA 2K25 Summer League.
In Vegas, the Thunder faced tough competition, falling to the Toronto Raptors in a 94-69 defeat and the Miami Heat by a score of 102-73. With only one more week left in the Summer League, it’s time to evaluate some early takeaways from the Thunder’s performance. While there have been glimpses of promise, there are still lingering questions that need answers.
Ousmane Dieng, who showcased flashes of brilliance akin to a seasoned veteran, displayed moments of inconsistency throughout the games. Despite shooting below 40% from the field in two out of three contests, Dieng shone bright with a 40% three-point shooting percentage. With the potential to be a key contributor in the league, Dieng aims to make strides in his crucial third year.
Dillon Jones, the Thunder’s lone first-round pick seeing action in the Summer League, has made a significant impact on the court. Drafted for his versatility, Jones has not disappointed, demonstrating his prowess in passing, rebounding, ball-handling, and scoring. Although three-point shooting was a concern coming out of Weber State, Jones has displayed growth in that area, hinting at the potential to become a reliable perimeter threat.
Ajay Mitchell, the Thunder’s sole second-round selection, has also turned heads with his performance in the Summer League. While not as flashy as Jones, Mitchell’s playmaking ability has been on full display, particularly evident in his 10-assist game against the Jazz. This skill was a key factor in the Thunder’s decision to draft him, and Mitchell further solidified his potential with a 20-point outing against the Heat.
As the Summer League progresses, the Thunder’s young prospects continue to make strides and showcase their talents. With more games ahead, fans eagerly anticipate the growth and development of these promising players.
