The Legacy of Jersey No. 25 in OKC Thunder History: A Walk Through the Numbers

From the vibrant streets of Namur, Belgium, to the high-paced courts of Oklahoma City, the journey of Ajay Mitchell is one that reflects the ever-evolving story of the Thunder franchise. This Belgian-born guard may be a newcomer to the league, but he’s already stamped his name into Thunder history — not just for his plays, but for proudly rocking jersey No. 25.

But before we dive into Mitchell's budding NBA career, let’s rewind a little and explore how jersey No. 25 has traveled through the years, passed from one player to the next, as part of a larger Thunder (and former Supersonics) legacy.

Wait, Seattle? Yes — That’s Part of the Story Too!

Let’s get this cleared up early: Yes, the Oklahoma City Thunder were once known as the Seattle Supersonics. The franchise dates back to the 1967-68 season, and although the name and city may have changed, the history didn't reset. Much like when the Charlotte Hornets reclaimed their identity from the Bobcats, the Thunder inherited and honored their Seattle roots — at least for now.

In case Seattle gets a new NBA team in the future (which fans are definitely hoping for), it’s possible that some of this shared history might split. But as it stands today, all those stats, games, and jerseys — including No. 25 — remain part of the OKC Thunder legacy.

Quick Hit: Jersey No. 25 – By the Numbers

🎯 Total Players Who Wore No. 25: 12
📍 First Worn: In the Supersonics era
📍 Most Recent Wearer: Ajay Mitchell (2024–present)
📊 Mitchell's Stats (Rookie Season):

• Points per game: 6.5

• Rebounds: 1.9

• Assists: 1.8

Each player brought their own twist to the number, but only a few truly stood out. And as the 12th player to take on No. 25, Ajay Mitchell is definitely starting to make it his own.

Who Is Ajay Mitchell, Anyway?

Ajay Mitchell may not be a household name just yet, but don't sleep on this rookie. He ended his college career strong at UC Santa Barbara, displaying slick ball-handling, impressive court vision, and the kind of hustle that every coach dreams of. The New York Knicks saw enough potential to grab him with the 38th overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft — but it was Oklahoma City that brought him into their fold.

Even though Mitchell is early in his career, there's a quiet confidence about him. He doesn't chase the spotlight. Instead, he lets his game speak for itself. Wearing No. 25, he's showing glimpses of someone who could evolve into a reliable contributor in OKC’s young, dynamic roster.

Flashback: The Thunder’s Jersey Number Deep Dive

So, what’s the deal with these jersey number retrospectives? Why the focus on No. 25 right now?

Well, Thunder Wire has been rolling out a comprehensive series covering every jersey number ever worn in franchise history — all 51 of them! It's a way to recognize not just the stars, but the role players, the journeymen, and yes, even the short-term contracts who still left their mark.

This isn’t just about who scored the most or made the All-Star team. It’s about the names that filled those uniforms, the hustle behind the stats, and the stories stitched into the fabric of each jersey. No. 25 is just the latest stop in this nostalgic deep dive.

Honoring the Forgotten Players

Out of the 12 men who wore No. 25, some stayed only briefly. Others gave the fans a season or two of heart and hustle. While Ajay Mitchell may be the freshest face, there’s a whole lineage behind him — a brotherhood of sorts, united by that jersey number.

Unfortunately, many of these names might not ring a bell unless you’re a hardcore Thunder or Sonics fan. That’s why efforts like this series matter — to make sure those legacies aren’t forgotten.

From 10-day contracts to solid bench roles, every player who wore No. 25 contributed something, even if it never made a highlight reel. And that’s kind of beautiful when you think about it.

The Emotional Side of Numbers

Sports fans know this better than most: jersey numbers carry emotion. They're more than digits sewn onto fabric. They're personal.

No. 25 might not be as iconic as No. 23 (you know, His Airness), but it’s got its own charm. For some players, it's a tribute to a mentor or a family member. For others, it’s pure superstition or a random assignment that ended up becoming part of their identity.

Whatever the reason, these numbers get etched into memories — on trading cards, in box scores, and on the backs of fans in the arena. And now, with Mitchell repping No. 25 for the Thunder, a new chapter begins.

What's Next for Mitchell and No. 25?

At the time of writing, Ajay Mitchell is still a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder. And while he’s not a nightly headline-maker (yet), he’s gaining experience, logging minutes, and finding his groove. He’s the kind of guy who may not explode out of the gate but can steadily carve out a role over time.

He’s also fortunate to be part of an organization known for developing talent. Look at OKC’s recent track record — they’re not just drafting talent; they’re grooming future stars. If Mitchell keeps putting in the work, we might be talking about his journey a few years from now with a lot more excitement.

And hey, how cool would it be if No. 25 became associated with something special in OKC? Maybe a clutch playoff performance or a breakout season? Only time will tell.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Number

The history of jersey No. 25 with the Thunder isn't just a list of names — it’s a reflection of a franchise that has seen transformation, relocation, and rebirth. From the Pacific Northwest’s rainy courts in Seattle to the buzzing energy of Chesapeake Energy Arena in OKC, the number has traveled a long way.

Ajay Mitchell’s story is still being written, but by donning No. 25, he’s carrying a piece of that legacy. Whether he becomes a Thunder mainstay or a footnote in their deep roster history, one thing’s for sure: he’s part of something bigger now.

So next time you see that jersey flash on the screen during a Thunder game, remember — it's more than fabric and stitching. It's history in motion.

🔔 Stay tuned as Thunder Wire continues to explore every jersey number in the franchise’s rich and evolving story. Up next? Jersey No. 26 — who wore it, what they did, and why it matters. Spoiler: There’s always more than meets the eye.