No. 40 in the Thunder-Sonics lineage ties Seattle’s rugged past to Oklahoma City’s present, noting 11 different players wore the number since the franchise began in 1967-68. Shawn Kemp stands as the ninth Sonics wearer, anchoring an eight-season run with 16.2 points, 9.6 rebounds, 1.8 steals and 1.2 blocks per game, all while donning No. 40.

The jersey’s story is a chronicle of franchise evolution—from Seattle to Thunder—highlighting how one number can carry shared identity across eras. Basketball Reference provides the stats behind Kemp’s era, underscoring the frontcourt impact that helped shape the No. 40 legacy and its relevance for fantasy minds tracking historical busts and peak performances.

Thunder Wire’s jersey history series reminds fantasy players that lineage and lore can inform how we value players tied to iconic numbers, even as teams transition and rosters turn over.

Shawn Kemp, a former NBA star, has pleaded guilty to an assault charge related to a shooting incident that occurred in March 2023 at Tacoma Mall, Washington. The incident followed Kemp's report of a car break-in, during which he claimed to have tracked his stolen cellphone to a Toyota 4Runner. After confronting the occupants of the vehicle, a shot was fired from inside the SUV, prompting Kemp to return fire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the encounter, although Kemp faced serious charges, including drive-by shooting. His sentencing is scheduled for August 22.

Kemp, known for his impressive career, was a six-time NBA All-Star, averaging nearly 15 points and over eight rebounds throughout his 14 seasons, predominantly with the Seattle SuperSonics. This recent legal trouble raises questions about his life post-retirement and the challenges former athletes face.