Thunder Threads: The Legacy of Jersey No. 34 in Oklahoma City and Seattle
When it comes to basketball history, there’s something nostalgic and kind of electric about jersey numbers. They’re not just cloth and digits—they're memory markers, etched into the minds of fans and associated with buzzer-beaters, iconic dunks, or even heartbreaking playoff exits. For the Oklahoma City Thunder—and the Seattle SuperSonics before them—each jersey tells its own story.
Now, let’s talk about one of those iconic digits: Jersey No. 34.
Over the years, 17 players have worn this number for the franchise, stretching all the way back to the Seattle SuperSonics era starting in 1967 and continuing through to the Thunder's rise in Oklahoma City. That’s more than five decades of hoops history packed into one jersey number. We’re diving deep into the backstory of No. 34—who wore it, what it meant to them, and how it fits into the colorful mosaic of this NBA franchise.
A Quick Throwback: Seattle’s Sonic Boom
Before we get too far into the OKC part of the story, we gotta rewind the tape. The franchise originally took flight as the Seattle SuperSonics, tipping off their first season in 1967. From rain-soaked Seattle streets to the thunderous energy of KeyArena, the Sonics built a devoted fan base and played a pivotal role in NBA history.
Fast forward to 2008, the Sonics packed up and relocated to Oklahoma City, becoming the Thunder we know today. But that Seattle era? It still matters. Think of it like the franchise’s DNA—those stories, stats, and jerseys remain part of the Thunder's official record. Sure, if a new team comes to Seattle like Charlotte did with the Hornets, that may change. But for now? Those Supersonics roots are alive in OKC’s legacy.
The Rise of No. 34
So, back to jersey No. 34. Seventeen players wearing it might not seem earth-shattering until you start connecting the dots of who they were and what they did on the hardwood. Among the most notable names attached to this jersey is Desmond Mason—a guy who brought athleticism, heart, and a splash of flair every time he stepped on the court.
Born in Waxahachie, Texas, Mason played his college ball at Oklahoma State, which already gave him a hometown-hero vibe in Oklahoma. Then, in the 2000 NBA Draft, the Seattle SuperSonics picked him 17th overall—a move that marked the start of a multi-city, multi-jersey journey through the NBA.
Desmond Mason: High-Flying, Art-Loving Swingman
Here’s where things get cool. Mason wasn’t just a basketball player—he was (and still is) an accomplished artist. While he was dunking on defenders in the NBA, he was also creating bold abstract paintings off the court. That dual passion gave him a unique vibe. On the court, he brought ferocious energy, a high-flying dunk contest win in 2001, and solid numbers. Off the court, he painted canvases and supported arts education programs.
During his time with the franchise—both as a Sonic and during the Thunder’s early days—he wore jersey Nos. 24 and 34, with his second stint in OKC (2008) seeing him suit up in the latter. He also had stints with the Milwaukee Bucks and the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets (what is now known as the Pelicans), before finishing his career with the Sacramento Kings in 2009.
While wearing No. 34 for the Thunder/Sonics, Mason averaged 9.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game, per Basketball Reference. Nothing flashy stat-wise, but his impact went beyond the box score—he was a veteran presence, a role model, and a crowd favorite, especially in Oklahoma.
Why Jersey Numbers Matter More Than You Think
In today’s NBA, jersey numbers are sometimes chosen randomly, but often there’s a story behind them. For fans, these numbers become shorthand for greatness, grit, or unforgettable moments. Think Shaquille O'Neal in No. 34, Ray Allen’s sharpshooting days in No. 34, or Giannis Antetokounmpo dominating in Milwaukee’s version of the number.
For the Thunder and SuperSonics, the No. 34 didn’t necessarily belong to a single franchise-changing superstar—but it had consistency, depth, and some underrated contributors who helped shape the identity of the team.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for No. 34?
Right now, jersey No. 34 isn’t being rocked by any current Thunder player, but who knows what the future holds? As OKC continues building its young core—led by budding stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and Josh Giddey—there’s always a chance the next legend to wear 34 is just one draft away.
Maybe one day, some kid who watched Mason throw down windmill dunks or read about the Supersonics in the history books will choose to wear No. 34 and bring it roaring back into the spotlight.
🔥 Quick Highlights to Remember
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Franchise Beginnings: The SuperSonics were born in 1967 and relocated to become the OKC Thunder in 2008.
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Jersey No. 34: Worn by 17 players across the team’s history.
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Desmond Mason: The most notable No. 34, drafted 17th overall in 2000, was a high-flying dunker and off-court artist.
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Stats Snapshot: While wearing No. 34, Mason averaged 9.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, and 1.3 APG.
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Still Part of the Legacy: Even if Seattle gets a new team in the future, the Thunder still currently claim the Sonics’ jersey history as part of their own.
Final Thoughts: A Number with Legacy
Not every jersey number in the NBA gets the superstar treatment. Not every number becomes iconic like Jordan’s 23 or Kobe’s 24. But No. 34 for the Thunder/Sonics? It’s a number full of grit, character, and players who left their mark—even if it wasn’t always in the national spotlight.
It’s a reminder that franchise history isn’t only built by legends—it’s also built by the solid contributors, the artists, the high-flyers, and the players who gave everything, even if just for a season or two. That’s what makes the story of jersey No. 34 so worth telling.
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