In the news features a Paul George animated short film, excitement over the potential Breakers – OKC Thunder game and more draft prospect previews.
Game two of the NBA Finals tips off tonight with the existing champs looking to even things up. Witnessing the Dubs limping into this series it’s hard not to bemoan the OKC Thunder early playoff exit. Golden State looks the most vulnerable as they have in their five-year run. Sigh, we’ll have to keep the dream of improving this offseason alive in the hopes it will be the Thunder turn next season.
Closer to home the OKC Thunder are in the news with an animated film on Paul George hitting theatres, New Zealand basketball fans rejoice over the rumored Breakers – Thunder game and T.I. dives into more draft prospects.
Paul George short film:
Like several of his current or former teammates, Paul George is at the center of a short film by OKC Thunder Films. Each of Steven Adams, Alex Abrines and Nick Collison were the central focus in previous films.
As per writer Dana Hertneky of Oklahoma’s Own the following excerpt provides the details on the short animated film.
"Growing Up George is the latest offering from OKC Thunder Films, working in conjunction with Deep Sky Productions of Portland, OR and inspired by the artwork of Thunder global super fan Nanae Yamano of Japan. OKC Thunder Films has produced several projects, including The Kiwi Way, Si Señor!, and Mr. Thunder about Thunder player Nick Collison, which made its debut at the 2018 deadCenter Film Festival."
For regular fans of Thunderous Intentions, the name Nanae Yamano may not ring a bell. That’s because we tend to feature her under her Instagram moniker perspective_7a. The following illustration was her offering for Paul George and Russell Westbrook making All-NBA teams.
The deadCentre Film festival runs from June 6th through 9th. For additional details on tickets visit this link.
The dream game for NZ Breakers
Writer Marc Hinton of stuff details how excited New Zealanders are over the rumors their NZ Breakers will play the OKC Thunder this preseason and finally get a match against native Kiwi Steven Adams. While reading the article I couldn’t help but wonder what if Sam Presti ends up trading Adams in order to enhance his roster.
More from Thunderous Intentions
- 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
I’m not advocating that happen. But, imagine if this long coveted match between the NZ Breakers and the Thunder is real only for Adams not to be on the squad.
Let’s hope that the Breakers get their dream matchup. The article also says the New Zealand team will also play the Memphis Grizzlies.
Also highlighted in Hinton’s piece is the signing of RJ Hampton and that Kevin Durant reached out to the youngster.
"RJ Hampton for his one-and-done pre-NBA draft season, look poised to play two games against NBA sides in the pre-season, if Hampton’s agent, George Langberg, has his facts correct.Hampton was featured on the Full 48 podcast with respected US sports journalist Howard Beck and on it Langberg confirmed his player would get to experience two games against NBA teams as part of his pre-season with the Breakers."
Draft prospect Keldon Johnson:
Thunderous Intentions draft prospect series continues and the next youngster on tap is Keldon Johnson who Rylan Stiles considers in his preview.
"Keldon Johnson is a pro-ready prospect that could make a lot of sense for Sam Presti and the OKC Thunder. The patient approach might not be in play this time around for the OKC Thunder, as they tried with Andre Roberson, Josh Huestis and the like. With Johnson, he can step on an NBA floor tomorrow and give you productive minutes."
That puts a wrap on in the news for Sunday, June 2, enjoy the remainder of your weekend.