When you think about the history of the Oklahoma City Thunder, you can’t ignore the legacy of the Seattle SuperSonics, the team’s predecessor. Since the franchise was founded at the start of the 1967-68 season, an impressive 51 jersey numbers have been worn by players who suited up for the team. Whether under the Sonics’ green and gold or the Thunder’s bold blue, every jersey number carries a unique story, representing the players who helped shape the franchise over the decades.
A fascinating element of this history is the evolution of jersey numbers and the players who proudly wore them. While the SuperSonics' past may not officially carry over if a new team is ever established in Seattle—similar to how the Charlotte Bobcats reclaimed their Hornets identity—their legacy is still very much part of the Thunder’s history today. The Thunder franchise embraces this rich past, and that’s why we’re diving deep into the significance of each jersey number.
Today, we continue this journey by shining the spotlight on jersey No. 15—a number worn by 20 different players throughout the franchise’s history. It has graced the backs of athletes across different eras, each leaving their own mark on the court. Among them, one of the earliest to wear this number was Eddie Johnson, a talented guard from the Seattle SuperSonics days.
Eddie Johnson’s story is one of resilience and dedication. Born in Ocala, Florida, Johnson played his college ball at Auburn before entering the NBA. He was selected with the 49th overall pick in the 1977 NBA Draft by the Atlanta Hawks, where he would spend a significant portion of his career. Over the course of nine seasons with the Hawks, he built a reputation as a steady and skilled player.
After his time in Atlanta, Johnson had a brief stop with the Cleveland Cavaliers before wrapping up his career with the SuperSonics in the 1986-87 season. While in Seattle, he exclusively wore jersey No. 15, making his mark with an average of 9.0 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game. Though his stint with the SuperSonics was short, his contribution remains part of the franchise’s broader story.
The number 15 jersey has since been passed down through generations of players, each adding their own chapter to the Thunder-Sonics legacy. From dynamic guards to versatile forwards, the players who wore this number helped shape the team’s competitive spirit and history.
Exploring the significance of jersey numbers isn’t just about stats or records—it’s about celebrating the players who left an impact, no matter how big or small. Whether they played for the Seattle SuperSonics or the Oklahoma City Thunder, their time on the court contributed to a rich tradition that fans continue to cherish today.
Stay tuned as we continue uncovering the history behind each jersey number worn in this franchise, highlighting the stories that make Thunder basketball so special!
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