When it comes to NBA franchises with a rich and evolving history, the Oklahoma City Thunder—and before them, the Seattle SuperSonics—stand out as a team with decades of incredible talent donning their jerseys. From their founding at the start of the 1967-68 season to today, a total of 51 different jersey numbers have been worn by players who left their mark on the franchise. Whether in the iconic green and yellow of the SuperSonics or the electric blue of the Thunder, these numbers hold stories of the legends who wore them.
And while there has been much debate about whether the SuperSonics' history should remain part of the Thunder’s legacy—especially with the possibility of an NBA team returning to Seattle—the fact remains that for now, it's all part of Oklahoma City’s story. Just like the Charlotte Hornets reclaimed their history after the Bobcats era, Seattle fans may one day see their team back. But until then, the SuperSonics' legacy still breathes within the Thunder franchise.
The Legacy of Jersey No. 20
In this ongoing series, we're diving deep into the history of jersey numbers worn throughout the franchise’s existence. Today, we’re highlighting jersey No. 20—an iconic number that has been sported by ten players over the years.
The first player to ever wear No. 20 for the franchise was none other than Bob Boozer, a talented forward who became part of the Seattle SuperSonics' early days. His journey to the SuperSonics wasn’t a direct path, but it was one filled with solid performances and contributions across multiple teams.
The Bob Boozer Era
Born in Omaha, Nebraska, Bob Boozer made a name for himself early on, playing college basketball at Kansas State. His skills on the court earned him the first overall pick in the 1959 NBA Draft, selected by the Cincinnati Royals (known today as the Sacramento Kings). A power forward with a strong inside presence, Boozer spent his first four seasons with the Royals before embarking on a journey across the league.
Over the course of his career, Boozer played for several teams, including the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers, and Chicago Bulls. However, it was in 1969 when he found himself in Seattle, suiting up for the SuperSonics. Though his tenure with the team lasted only one season, it was a productive one.
During his time rocking the No. 20 jersey for the SuperSonics, Boozer put up impressive numbers, averaging:
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15.2 points per game
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8.7 rebounds per game
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1.3 assists per game
That level of production made Boozer a key contributor, even if his stint was short-lived. Unfortunately for Sonics fans, Boozer’s time with the team came to an end when he was traded to the Milwaukee Bucks in 1970.
The Significance of No. 20
While Bob Boozer was the first to wear No. 20, he certainly wasn’t the last. Over the years, ten different players have donned the number, each bringing their own unique style and impact to the team. Some played major roles, while others had shorter or lesser-known contributions, but they all share a place in the franchise’s history.
What makes a jersey number significant in a franchise? Sometimes it’s worn by a single superstar who defines an era. Other times, it’s passed down through multiple players, each leaving their own small imprint on the team’s journey. No. 20 falls into the latter category—a number that has seen a variety of talents wear it, each adding to the evolving legacy of the team.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
As we continue this deep dive into Thunder (and SuperSonics) history, it's fascinating to see how each jersey number tells a story. Some numbers are synonymous with franchise icons, while others, like No. 20, represent a mix of different players who helped shape the team in various ways. Whether you're a long-time fan or just learning about the history of the team, understanding the legacy behind the numbers adds another layer to appreciating the game.
For those wondering if the Seattle SuperSonics will ever return, only time will tell. But for now, their history remains intertwined with the Oklahoma City Thunder, and that means every player who wore No. 20—starting with Bob Boozer—continues to be part of that legacy.
Stay tuned as we continue our journey through Thunder history, one jersey number at a time!
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