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Taj Gibson: Your guide to the OKC Thunder’s secret weapon

By Heather Koontz

Feb 24, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) speaks to the media prior to action against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Taj Gibson (22) speaks to the media prior to action against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
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Taj Gibson
Apr 7, 2017; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Consequently, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Victor Oladipo (5) attempts to hold back forward Taj Gibson (right) as he scuffles with Phoenix Suns forward Alan Williams (15) in the third quarter at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Consequently, the Suns defeated the Thunder 120-99. And, Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Personal strength

It’s clear that Gibson’s talent and experience make him a perfect fit for Oklahoma City. But, Sam Presti selects players based on more than just their basketball chops. Of course, Gibson is no different.

Because, he’s strong. And, he knows the meaning of sacrifice.

Following the trade, Gibson admitted, “At night, I couldn’t sleep. I’d wake up all teary-eyed knowing I won’t see them again and I was like, ‘What if?’ What if I could’ve done something. Who knows? Just even call them and tell them to hang out with me in Chicago for a while. Something.”

Of note, this trial comes after Gibson had already endured numerous tragedies. In 2010, in a mere six-week period of time, Gibson lost three of his closest friends. One died in a car accident, and two were victims of shootings.

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Then, in June 2014, Gibson’s six-year-old cousin, Prince Avitto, was stabbed to death in an elevator of a public housing building. He was on his way to get ice cream.

While these incidents were tragic, Gibson has remained grounded and continues to play with a passion that’s hard to match.

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