Presti can draw inspiration from Damian Lillard and De’Aaron Fox in OKC Thunder rebuild

In eras past the pull to play for those two media markets took precedence largely due to sponsorship opportunities. But, given how popular Russell Westbrook became while in OKC and Damian Lillard in Portland there is an argument that small markets are equally competitive in the social media era and who the person is as an individual has far more to do with opportunity off the hardwood.

Couple that with the recent proclamations by De’Aaron Fox and Damian Lillard they have no desire to leave their current clubs. Fox stated his desires are to remain in Sacramento given it is the only team in the area and subsequently, the fans are dedicated to the Kings. An article written by Corban Goble of One37PM highlights the uniqueness of Fox:

"Fox’s presence in San Clemente is emblematic of his approach to opportunity in the sport and outside it. San Clemente is laid-back and near San Diego, which Fox prefers to Los Angeles. With all the movement in the NBA this offseason toward larger markets—Los Angeles and NYC/Brooklyn, in particular—Fox’s feelings on being in a big market are dampened by knowing he can find an audience anywhere. “I don’t crave to be in a big market,” he says. “After last season, there was a buzz in Sacramento. Everyone in Sacramento is a Kings fan. If we start making the playoffs, or if we become a championship contender, the entire city is going to go nuts. That’s the difference between a big market and a small one.”"

While Fox stands as an outlier his demeanor could be considered unique. Some point to the fact Kevin Durant said the same thing when he was in the early years of his career but later switched gears. This could be true of Fox too, but the fact he doesn’t follow the masses does seem to indicate he’ll march to his drum.