3 Reasons Why The Thunder Won The 2025 NBA Draft

Despite winning their first-ever NBA championship, the success for Oklahoma City didn’t stop there. Unlike teams such as the Jazz or the Sixers, the Thunder arguably had the best draft out of any team in the NBA. Specifically, they were able to get Georgetown big man Thomas Sorber and Northwestern guard Brooks Barnhizer.

Both players are excellent defenders who fit well into Oklahoma City’s roster and culture. While Sorber didn’t play in Summer League due to an injury from college, Barnhizer showed out well for the Thunder. Both players certainly possess the talent and skills to be truly effective players for the team in the future. Let’s delve into the three reasons why the Oklahoma City Thunder won the 2025 NBA Draft.

3 Reasons Why The Thunder Won The 2025 NBA Draft

#1: Hartenstein’s Successor

For the Thunder, one of the biggest reasons why they won the draft is immediately finding a potential successor for Isaiah Hartenstein. Considering the negative effects of the second apron, it is more than likely that this coming season is the last for Hartenstein in Oklahoma City. The Thunder won’t be able to have contracts like Hartenstein and Luguentz Dort on the books without dipping into the second apron since they paid their big three this offseason.

Because of that, drafting a potential replacement in Sorber is a massive win for Oklahoma City. Sorber is one of the best center prospects in the class, and they got him with the 15th pick. He has the skills to fit perfectly into the Thunder’s roster on both ends. His shot-blocking, paint protection, and passing can fill the hole left by Hartenstein. Furthermore, Sorber is a great finisher at the rim and has the potential to shoot the ball. As long as he continues to develop, the Thunder will have found a successor for Hartenstein.

#2: Doubling Down On Defense

A second reason Oklahoma City won the draft is its continued additions of defensive pieces to the roster. The Thunder were already the league’s top defense last season, but they continue to fortify in that area. Both Sorber and Barnhizer have proven they can be excellent defenders at their positions. Sorber gives the Thunder another option for paint protection, while Barnhizer’s size allows him to guard multiple positions. Both players seamlessly fit the Thunder’s positional needs and defensive culture. Drafting highly-skilled defenders allows the Thunder to have many different weapons to throw at opponents and wear them down. Considering that aspect, making their defense even stronger is a huge win.

#3: Talent On Cost-Controlled Contracts

The final reason for the Thunder winning the draft is getting Sorber and Barnhizer on cost-controlled contracts. Sorber is on a team-friendly rookie contract, and Barnhizer is on a two-way contract. Both players have the skills to provide production on those deals, making that a massive win for the Thunder. Given that they will eventually move some of their core due to second apron implications, finding talent on cost-controlled contracts is a must. Sorber and Barnhizer can help fill out the depth of the Thunder while having little to no impact on Oklahoma City’s financial situation.