Brooks Barnhizer, selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round, is making waves at the NBA Summer League. He has set a new record for consecutive games with over six steals, achieving 7 and 6 steals in his first two outings. This performance marks him as the first player in Summer League history to do so. With the Thunder winning both games so far, Barnhizer's impact is undeniable. He contributed significantly in points and rebounds as well, showcasing his versatility.

In the Thunder's recent matchup against the Indiana Pacers, Barnhizer scored 17 points while continuing his defensive prowess with six steals. His current average of 6.5 steals per game leads the Summer League, significantly improving from his college average of 2.3. The Thunder's strong offensive lineup, including players like Ajay Mitchell and Chris Youngblood, also supports Barnhizer's transition into the league.

The Oklahoma City Thunder have started their 2025 Summer League season, showcasing a roster of promising young talents such as Nikola Topic, Ajay Mitchell, and Brooks Barnhizer. The multi-city event provides an opportunity for teams to evaluate their prospects and get an initial glimpse of their potential impact. With Daniel Dixon coaching the Utah leg and Connor Johnson handling the Vegas games, the Thunder aim to maximize development in a low-pressure environment.

Dixon, who played his college ball at William & Mary, has made a significant transition from player to coach, having previously interned with the Charlotte Hornets before joining the Thunder's coaching staff. His journey reflects a strong commitment to player development, having been promoted after his time with the G League’s OKC Blue.

In their Summer League opener, the Oklahoma City Thunder fell to the Memphis Grizzlies 92-80, but the focus was on the promising performances of Nikola Topic and Ajay Mitchell. Topic, making his much-anticipated debut after a year of recovery, showcased flashes of talent with 14 points, while Mitchell dominated with 24 points, displaying an impressive ability to drive to the basket. Despite the loss, Thunder fans found hope in the way these young prospects played.

The game began slowly for both teams, but as they settled in, the offensive flow increased. By halftime, the Thunder trailed 45-40, with Mitchell emerging as the go-to scorer. In the third quarter, the Thunder fought back to narrow the gap, but a late surge by the Grizzlies extended their lead, ultimately sealing the game. While the defense struggled at times, the individual efforts of Topic, Mitchell, and Brooks Barnhizer provided a glimpse of the Thunder's bright future.

The Oklahoma City Thunder faced a tough start to their Summer League campaign with a 92-80 defeat against the Memphis Grizzlies. In his long-awaited debut, Nikola Topic showcased his skills with 14 points and four assists, following a year away due to a partially torn ACL. Ajay Mitchell was the standout performer, leading all scorers with 24 points and contributing six assists. Brooks Barnhizer also made his mark with a solid 9 points and 13 rebounds.

On the opposing side, the Grizzlies were led by the impressive duo of Jaylen Wells and GG Jackson II, each netting 20 points. Their strong performances were indicative of the Grizzlies' expectations for the Summer League, aiming to see their key young players shine. The Thunder will be looking to adjust quickly as they prepare for the next games in Utah and then head to Las Vegas.

After clinching their first Larry O'Brien trophy, the Oklahoma City Thunder wasted no time in turning their focus to the upcoming 2025 NBA draft. New draftees Thomas Sorber and Brooks Barnhizer, both fresh from their predraft workouts, are eager to contribute to a team poised for back-to-back championships. Sorber is already promising that the Thunder will repeat their success, while Barnhizer emphasizes the physicality of the NBA Finals and how their skills will fit into the Thunder's culture.

Their addition signifies a move towards long-term success, with both players expected to develop their abilities throughout the regular season. Sorber and Barnhizer's enthusiasm for their roles highlights the Thunder’s commitment to building a robust roster capable of sustaining their championship-caliber performance.