The Oklahoma City Thunder traded up in the 2023 NBA Draft to land Cason Wallace from the University of Kentucky. Since landing in Bricktown, the conversation around the rookie has been just how mature Wallace is for a rookie. His poise on the court allows him to flash high-level decision-making, knock down big shots, and shine defensively against some of the toughest matchups in the league.
Which is why Wallace fits Oklahoma City like a glove. The second youngest team in the NBA is jockeying for the top spot in the Western Conference, with a solid cushion on fifth place, putting themselves in the driver's seat to host a playoff series.
The 20-year-old has averaged 6.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. The rookie has served as the team's primary swing starter, stepping up in case of injuries, with nine starts under his belt already.
This was a good enough first half of the season to see him named to the NBA Rising Stars Challenge, and during the media availability portion of the event, Inside the Thunder asked Wallace where he draws that much raved about maturity from.
"My older brother...I really had to grow up and a man in certain situation, and take care of business." Wallace said giving credit to his brother, Keaton Wallace, who is playing in the NBA G League for the College Park Skyhawks.
For the Skyhawks, Wallace is averaging 12 points, five assists, three rebounds, and over a steal per contest. The 24 year old continues to search for an NBA opportunity, though should be credited for helping shape his younger brother's contributions for the OKC Thunder.
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