The Journey of Deonte Burton and his arrival to the OKC Thunder

Iowa State (2015-2017)

The human highlight reel didn’t take long to make his mark with Iowa State and showcased his exceptional athletic abilities with stunning posters left, right and center. Burton was forced to sit out the first half of Iowa States season following his transfer for eligibility reasons but came on strong to average 9.7 points and 3.9 rebounds in 18.8 minutes of playing time.

However, Burton truly ascended in his senior year where he was given the keys to Fred Hoiberg‘s offensive heavy system.

In 35 games, Burton averaged 15.1 points, 6.2 rebounds on 45.6 percent shooting and 37.5 percent from three in 29.5 minutes of action. In perhaps one of the greatest dunks in Iowa State history, Burton catches an alley-oop and throws it down in the win over number two seed West Virginia.

However, Burton’s real talents came to the light when Iowa State accounted for third-seeded Kansas State. The 25-year-old posted 29 points, eight rebounds, six steals and one block in the overtime victory in which Iowa State trailed by as much as 14. He hit a career-high seven triples from nine attempts in the win.

Despite these magnificent performances, Burton struggled to stay focused off the court. His lackadaisical attitude toward training and lazy work ethic became associated with his name. As talented as he was, this ultimately affected his stock at the NBA draft.

He went undrafted in 2017 but was later signed by the Minnesota Timberwolves. He was waived at training camp and Burton took his talents to Wonju DB Promy in South Korea’s Basketball League.