The Oklahoma City Thunder capped a historic 68-win regular season with a championship ring, and Isaiah Joe emerged as the pivotal outside weapon off the bench. Joe posted a career year, averaging 10.2 points while shooting 41.2% from long range on 6.1 attempts per game, and he did so with 82.1% from the stripe and a 61.7% true shooting. His shooting volume translated into a sizable 17.2% usage rate and 5.1 win shares while providing a reliable floor-spreader that allowed Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams to attack with space. Joe wasn’t merely a catch-and-shoot option; he flashed athletes’ versatility, showing off occasional transition bursts and a willingness to attack when defenses overhelp. His career-best 33-point game underscored that he can explode when given runway. The Thunder locked him in with a 2025-26 salary of $12.4 million, with two more years of team control (2026-27 at $11.3M; 2027-28 at $11.3M with a team option). The Arkansas native has evolved from a late 2022 training camp invite into a trusted, high-volume shooter who can soak up minutes and space the floor for drive-heavy stars. Moving forward, continued shooting volume and durability will determine Joe’s ceiling as a fantasy asset and a core piece of OKC’s repeat-contender plan.

The Oklahoma City Thunder's jersey history reflects a rich tradition through its various players. Notably, Desmond Mason, who wore jersey No. 34, made an impact during his time with the franchise between 2000 and 2003. Drafted by the Seattle SuperSonics as the 17th overall pick, Mason was known for contributing an average of 9.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. His journey included a brief return to OKC in 2008, and he played for teams like the Milwaukee Bucks and New Orleans Hornets during his career.

This exploration of jersey numbers not only honors Mason's legacy but also highlights the broader history of players who have donned the Thunder's colors. Jersey No. 34 has been worn by a total of 17 players throughout the franchise's existence, marking significant moments in both Seattle and Oklahoma City. The legacy of these athletes continues to resonate, shaping the Thunder's identity.

The Oklahoma City Thunder clinched the NBA Championship by defeating the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling Game 7. This victory is particularly notable as it marks the second time in three seasons that Eric Musselman’s former players, Jaylin Williams and Isaiah Joe, have taken home championship rings. While Williams was primarily a bench player, he demonstrated resilience during crucial moments in the playoffs, contributing to the team's success. Joe, a more significant contributor, played in five Finals games, showcasing his development since his collegiate days at Arkansas.

Musselman's impressive coaching track record has produced four NBA champions in the past four years, reinforcing his status as a premier talent developer in college basketball. With aspirations of continuing this success at USC, he aims to prepare the next generation of players for the professional ranks.