OKC Thunder's Number 20: A History Of Players

The Oklahoma City Thunder has seen a myriad of players don their jersey over the years, each contributing to the team's rich history and legacy. Among the various numbers that have graced the court, the number 20 holds a special place, having been worn by several notable players who have left their mark on the franchise. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the captivating stories of every player who has proudly sported the number 20 for the OKC Thunder, chronicling their individual contributions, achievements, and overall impact on the team and its fans. So, buckle up, Thunder enthusiasts, as we journey through time and celebrate the players who have proudly represented the number 20 in the annals of OKC Thunder history.

A Deep Dive into the Players Who Wore No. 20

The number 20 has been worn by a diverse array of players throughout the Oklahoma City Thunder's history, each bringing their unique skills and contributions to the team. Let's take a closer look at some of the notable players who have donned this jersey number:

1. Walter Herrmann

Walter Herrmann, an Argentinian small forward, had a brief but memorable stint with the OKC Thunder during the 2008-2009 season. While his time with the team was short-lived, Herrmann's scoring ability and international experience made him a valuable asset off the bench. His contributions, though limited in time, helped solidify the Thunder's roster during a crucial period of growth and development. Herrmann's journey to the NBA is a testament to his perseverance and dedication to the sport. Born in Santa Fe, Argentina, he began his professional career in his home country before venturing to Europe, where he honed his skills and gained valuable experience playing in various leagues. His success overseas caught the attention of NBA scouts, ultimately leading to his opportunity with the Charlotte Bobcats and later the Oklahoma City Thunder. During his time with the Thunder, Herrmann showcased his offensive prowess, demonstrating his ability to score from both the perimeter and inside the paint. His versatility allowed him to contribute in various ways, whether it was providing instant offense off the bench or spacing the floor for his teammates. Although his tenure with the team was brief, Herrmann's impact was felt by both his teammates and the coaching staff, who appreciated his professionalism and commitment to the game.

2. Reggie Jackson

Reggie Jackson, a dynamic point guard known for his scoring prowess and playmaking abilities, wore the number 20 for the Thunder from 2011 to 2015. Drafted by the Thunder in 2011, Jackson quickly emerged as a key contributor off the bench, providing instant offense and a spark of energy whenever he stepped onto the court. His fearless drives to the basket, crafty finishes, and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and others made him a fan favorite in Oklahoma City. Jackson's time with the Thunder was marked by significant growth and development as a player. Under the guidance of the Thunder's coaching staff and alongside established stars like Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, Jackson honed his skills and became an integral part of the team's success. He played a crucial role in the Thunder's playoff runs, providing valuable scoring and playmaking off the bench. One of the most memorable moments of Jackson's Thunder career came during the 2013 NBA Playoffs when he stepped up in the absence of injured starters to lead the team to crucial victories. His performance during that playoff run showcased his ability to handle pressure and perform at a high level in critical situations. Jackson's departure from the Thunder in 2015 was met with mixed emotions from fans who had grown to appreciate his contributions to the team. However, his impact on the Thunder during his four seasons with the team remains undeniable. He left a lasting legacy as a dynamic scorer, playmaker, and a key member of some of the most successful teams in franchise history.

3. Anthony Morrow

Anthony Morrow, a sharpshooting guard, donned the number 20 for the Thunder during the 2014-2016 seasons. Renowned for his exceptional three-point shooting ability, Morrow provided the Thunder with a valuable perimeter threat, spacing the floor and creating opportunities for his teammates. His presence on the court forced opposing defenses to respect his shooting range, opening up driving lanes and scoring opportunities for the Thunder's other offensive weapons. Morrow's journey to the NBA is a testament to his dedication and hard work. After going undrafted out of Georgia Tech, Morrow persevered, showcasing his skills in the NBA Summer League and eventually earning a spot on the Golden State Warriors roster. His success with the Warriors paved the way for his stints with other NBA teams, including the Oklahoma City Thunder. During his time with the Thunder, Morrow established himself as a reliable scorer off the bench, providing instant offense whenever he entered the game. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc made him a valuable asset to the Thunder's offensive attack. Morrow's contributions extended beyond his scoring ability. He was also a respected teammate and a consummate professional, always willing to put in the work and do what was asked of him. His positive attitude and work ethic made him a valuable presence in the Thunder's locker room. While Morrow's time with the Thunder was relatively short, his impact on the team was significant. He provided the Thunder with a much-needed perimeter threat and helped solidify their offensive attack. His sharpshooting prowess and professionalism made him a fan favorite in Oklahoma City.

4. Victor Oladipo

Victor Oladipo, a dynamic and athletic guard, wore the number 20 for the Thunder during the 2016-2017 season. Acquired in a trade from the Orlando Magic, Oladipo brought his electrifying athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess to the Thunder. His versatility allowed him to play both guard positions, providing the Thunder with flexibility and depth in their backcourt. Oladipo's time with the Thunder was marked by his explosive drives to the basket, acrobatic finishes, and tenacious defense. He quickly became a fan favorite in Oklahoma City, known for his energetic style of play and his ability to ignite the crowd with his highlight-reel plays. One of the most memorable moments of Oladipo's Thunder career came during a game against the Denver Nuggets when he soared through the air for a thunderous dunk over Kenneth Faried, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The play showcased Oladipo's exceptional athleticism and his ability to make game-changing plays. Oladipo's contributions to the Thunder extended beyond his on-court performance. He was also a respected leader and a positive influence in the locker room. His work ethic, dedication, and team-first attitude made him a valuable asset to the Thunder's culture. While Oladipo's tenure with the Thunder was relatively brief, his impact on the team was undeniable. He brought an electrifying energy to the court and quickly became a key contributor on both ends of the floor. His athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive prowess made him a valuable member of the Thunder's roster.

The Legacy of Number 20

The number 20 has been worn by a diverse group of players in Oklahoma City Thunder history, each contributing their unique talents and personalities to the team. From Herrmann's international flair to Jackson's dynamic playmaking, Morrow's sharpshooting, and Oladipo's electrifying athleticism, the players who have donned the number 20 have left an indelible mark on the Thunder franchise. While their individual styles and contributions may have varied, they all shared a common thread: a commitment to excellence and a desire to represent the Thunder with pride. As the Thunder continue to build their legacy, the players who have worn the number 20 will forever be remembered as part of the team's rich history. Their stories serve as a reminder of the diverse talents and personalities that have come together to make the Oklahoma City Thunder a special franchise.

In conclusion, the number 20 holds a special place in the hearts of OKC Thunder fans, representing a lineage of players who have contributed to the team's rich history and legacy. From Walter Herrmann's international flair to Reggie Jackson's dynamic playmaking, Anthony Morrow's sharpshooting, and Victor Oladipo's electrifying athleticism, each player who has donned the number 20 has brought their unique skills and personality to the court. As the Thunder continue to strive for excellence, the legacy of these players will serve as an inspiration, reminding fans of the diverse talents and personalities that have come together to make the Oklahoma City Thunder a truly special franchise.