Credit: Nic Antaya/Getty Images

Oklahoma City Thunder re-sign player Isiah Thomas told NBA teams to be ‘ashamed’ for not drafting

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Sep 26, 2025 2:30 PM ET

The NBA’s new season begins in approximately one month, with defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder continuing roster improvements.

The Thunder have made minimal additions aside from drafting Thomas Sorber, who will unfortunately miss the entire season due to an ACL injury.

Their major moves involved extending superstars Chet Holmgren and Jaylen Williams, along with current MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

The front office appears satisfied continuing with their championship roster, believing it remains strong enough for title contention.

And recently, the Thunder just re-signed center Branden Carlson to a two-way contract, a move that drew praise from former player Isiah Thomas.

The Thunder have brought big man Branden Carlson back, signing him to a two-way contract. pic.twitter.com/lmVcu5nj4C
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) September 26, 2025

Isiah Thomas questions NBA teams’ evaluation after Branden Carlson’s impressive summer performances

Thomas believes Carlson deserves more attention from NBA talent evaluators based on his recent performances.

“The talent evaluators should be ashamed of themselves for not seeing Carlson,” Thomas stated.

“I don’t even know what to say no more. I just want to know [from] the 30 teams that were looking at him — what didn’t they like?”

Thomas’ criticism stems from Carlson’s impressive Summer League showing, particularly his 23-point performance with four three-pointers in Oklahoma City’s victory over the Orlando Magic.

The 26-year-old center demonstrated versatility and shooting ability that Thomas believes warrants broader NBA recognition.

Photo by Tyler Kaufman/Getty Images

Branden Carlson provides familiar depth solution following Thomas Sorber injury

Last season, Carlson appeared in 32 games for the Thunder, averaging 7.7 minutes while contributing 3.8 points and 1.7 rebounds per game.

The re-signing indicates the Thunder’s need to address their big man rotation following Sorber’s injury.

Rather than pursuing external options, they chose to retain a player already familiar with their system and culture.

Carlson’s familiarity with Oklahoma City’s schemes and his demonstrated ability to contribute when called upon made him a logical choice for the two-way contract slot.

His summer performances suggest potential for expanded contributions and, if he continues improving his three point ability, he might get more minutes next season.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: