OKC Thunder in the news’ is back with a topical compilation for your Thursday morning Thunder binge.
In wake of OKC Thunder’s most recent loss, I have decided its in all of our best interests to delve into some happy and positive OKC Thunder news. So, save your sanity and read on.
Nerlens and Abrines return to practice:
It was reassuring to hear that Alex Abrines accompanied OKC on their trip to Atlanta Tuesday. His absence has been extensive and without detail. He was originally listed as out due to “illness” and then for unknown personal reasons.
It led to many talks about his future with the Thunder. Rightfully so, as Erik Horne reported for NewsOK.com that he has been inactive for eleven games thus far. However, I’d like to take this time to remind you that NBA players still lead lives beyond the franchise they play for. Whatever has kept Abrines out, I wish him well and hope he is okay.
That being said, Horne also reported that Abrines has returned to Thunder practices, participating in non-contact drills following the loss in Atlanta.
"Thunder coach Billy Donovan said both Alex Abrines (personal reasons) and Nerlens Noel (concussion protocol) were participants in Wednesday’s non-contact practice in Oklahoma City. Abrines has missed the Thunder’s last 11 games, while Noel has missed the last three games after suffering a concussion Jan. 8 against Minnesota.Abrines was on the team’s trip to Atlanta, but was inactive. Recently, the third-year guard has been coming in to the Thunder’s practice facility for workouts and shooting."
An expectation for his active return is still up in the air.
For now, Abdel Nader has done an admirable job filling the gap for the bench. On the other hand, the gap left from Nerlens Noel has been a bit more prominent. His defensive contributions have been greatly missed over the last three games.
Luckily, the gap may collapse sooner than later as Billy Donovan stated that his progress has improved day-by-day and Noel also participated in non-contact shooting drills. Donovan’s full statement can be heard in the video below, per Madysson Morris.
OKC Thunder franchise partners with Hiring our Heroes:
On Thursday, Jan. 24, the Chesapeake Arena will host a hiring expo for military individuals in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes.
"The event will include over 80 employers and service providers who will meet with veterans, military spouses and personnel of all ranks and levels of experience. Companies participating range from some of America’s largest employers to smaller companies from across the region.The event is an initiative of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes, is free and is open to active duty service members, Guard and Reserve, veterans, and military spouses. Prior to the hiring expo, there will be a free workshop where participants will learn how to create and refine resumes, craft effective LinkedIn profiles and partake in mock interviews."
As a member of a military family, I greatly appreciate the OKC Thunder franchise is giving back in this way. As mentioned above, it is open to active personnel, off-duty personnel, and even military spouses.
It’s a wonderful resource for individuals who may have spent years in their chosen field and return home without the requirements to attain a job they desire.
More from Thunder News
- Stealing one player from every Southwest Division team for the OKC Thunder
- Should the OKC Thunder chase after a disgruntled hometown hero?
- 3 OKC Thunder players who can step up in Aleksej Pokusevski’s absence
- Aleksej Pokusevski sidelined approximately 6 weeks with ankle injury
- Damian Lillard does not fit with the OKC Thunder
In addition to the expo, those who register are offered up to two free tickets to the OKC Thunder versus New Orleans Pelicans game that evening.
For information on registering, the background of Hiring our Heroes, and the full article, click here.
Nick Collison honored with OKC’s first number retirement:
Another date for the calendar: March 30, is the day number 4 will be locked in as a legend.
Jordan Buckamneer reported for TI to celebrate the retirement of Nick Collison’s famed No. 4.
"Explaining his popularity to an outsider or even a young Thunder fan is almost impossible, as one could only gain a full appreciation of Collison by watching his career unfold. You can’t look up stats or just watch highlights. You had to be in the building or glued to the TV for every game to watch him set solid screens, dive for loose balls or fearlessly take a charge."
Buckamneer explained many ways Mr. Thunder impacted the OKC Thunder franchise. He did things that didn’t show up in a box score or headlines. He was a part of the Seattle SuperSonics and stayed loyal through the transition to OKC. We all know the importance of loyalty to Thunder fans.
He played 602 games for OKC. 602 games of heartfelt basketball. Through those games, Collison established a mold for the type of player OKC desires.
"He never demanded playing time, stirred drama or requested a trade. He was content to do the heavy lifting and let his teammates take the credit. And above all else, he was loyal to his team. Pair him with the spirit of Oklahoma City, and it’s a match made in heaven."
To stay up to date on OKC Thunder news, bookmark the Thunderous Intentions homepage. Stay safe, stay happy, and stay Thundered Up, folks!