The Oklahoma City Thunder have a rich history, dating back to their days as the Seattle Supersonics before the franchise relocated. Over the decades, players have come and gone, each leaving their mark while donning different jersey numbers. Since its inception in the 1967-68 season, the franchise has seen 51 different jersey numbers represented by the athletes who have proudly suited up for the team.
While the Supersonics’ legacy remains a nostalgic chapter in NBA history, their connection to the Thunder is still relevant today. Of course, if a new team ever rises again in Seattle, similar to how the Charlotte Hornets reclaimed their identity, the history might take a different turn. But for now, the Thunder embrace their roots, and every jersey worn holds a special place in the team’s ongoing story.
One such number that has seen a fair share of representation is jersey No. 22. Across the franchise’s history, a total of 20 players have worn this number, each contributing in their own way. Among them, the 15th player to wear No. 22 in the Oklahoma City Thunder era was Mustafa Shakur—a name that may not instantly ring a bell for casual fans but holds significance in the lineage of the jersey.
Mustafa Shakur’s Journey to the Thunder
Shakur’s path to the NBA wasn’t the most conventional. After finishing a solid collegiate career at the University of Arizona, he entered the 2007 NBA Draft with high hopes. However, he went undrafted, a tough pill to swallow for any aspiring pro. Instead of giving up, Shakur took his talents abroad, playing overseas and in the G League (formerly known as the D-League) to keep his NBA dream alive.
It wasn’t until 2011 that he got his first taste of NBA action, signing a brief contract with the Washington Wizards. While that stint was short-lived, Shakur remained persistent, continuing to grind his way through various professional leagues.
Fast forward to 2014, and the Philadelphia native found himself with an opportunity to join the Oklahoma City Thunder. Though his time with OKC was limited, it marked his final stint in the NBA. Wearing jersey No. 22, Shakur contributed where he could, averaging 1.3 assists per game. While his numbers weren’t eye-popping, his journey to the league—one of resilience and determination—deserves recognition.
The Legacy of No. 22 in Thunder History
Jersey numbers tell stories, and No. 22 has had its fair share of narratives within the Thunder and Supersonics history. Some players have worn it briefly, while others made more significant contributions. Each name attached to it has played a role in shaping the franchise’s identity, from Seattle’s early days to Oklahoma City’s current era.
Though Shakur may not be the most famous player to sport No. 22, his perseverance and ability to keep chasing his dream reflect the kind of grit and tenacity that NBA hopefuls admire. The Thunder’s history is filled with players like him—those who may not have had long-lasting stardom but still carved out a place in the team’s journey.
As Thunder fans continue to watch new talents emerge and old numbers get passed down, every jersey tells a part of the story. The number 22, like many others, is a testament to the players who have fought for their spot, made their mark—big or small—and contributed to the ever-evolving legacy of the Oklahoma City Thunder.
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