The Oklahoma City Thunder built their team over the decades through the NBA draft, finding special success right from their founding as our own Seattle SuperSonics. Yeah, that’s right, the legacy traces back to the Emerald City, to the very franchise that once bled green and gold right here. This team has consistently snagged big names and notable alumni through those draft days, casting a ridiculously wide net.
From Prestigious Programs to Obscure Picks: The Sonics’ Drafting Legacy
It’s not just about hitting the jackpot every time; it’s about a deep commitment to the draft as a whole. This franchise has always looked everywhere for talent, tapping into both prestigious college programs and smaller institutions to beef up their roster. It’s a strategy that has defined them, showing they weren’t afraid to dig deep and find prospects wherever they could, sometimes even for an almost forgotten pick that tells its own story.
Earl Banks: The Sole Auburn Player Who Didn’t Make the Cut
So, who’s the one guy from Auburn that the SuperSonics/Thunder franchise ever picked up in the draft? Get ready for this one: it’s a forward named Earl Banks. He was snatched up in the 6th round, 7th pick, 122nd overall, back in the 1981 NBA Draft. Banks played four seasons for Auburn, but here’s the kicker: he never actually made the team. He didn’t play a single game for the franchise. It’s a prime example of just how vast their drafting strategy was, even picking guys who ultimately didn’t stick around.
Looking back, it’s a reminder that every single draft pick, no matter how obscure, is part of the story. It shows the incredible effort put into scouting, even if sometimes it doesn’t pan out. Always keep an eye on who’s coming through the pipeline, because every name has a tale.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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