“This stings” are two words I’ve seen pop up many times on OKC Thunder fans’ Twitter accounts over the last few days.
It’s in response to the shocking news that Thunder wing Hamidou Diallo would be traded to the Detroit Pistons. The trade caught a lot of people off guard with it being a breakout year for the 22-year-old who was solidifying himself as a key player on OKC and showing us why he could be a mainstay for years to come.
But in the NBA you just never know what’s going to happen and you have to expect the unexpected. Still, saying goodbye to Hami hurts and will definitely take some time to get over.
In his three-year stint in the Sooner State, he provided some epic performances highlighted by his explosiveness, superspeed, and a motor that never stopped.
He had arguably the best game of his career dominating in a win over the New York Knicks just two months ago, recording a massive 23 points, 11 rebounds, two assists, and a steal. Diallo also became the Thunder’s very first dunk contest champion.
These are just a couple of moments we’ll never forget.
You can check out a piece by TI’s Mark Nilon on possible reasons why General Manager Sam Presti decided to make this move here.
Let’s take a look at fan tweets as the Thunder faithful thank and farewell one of the most athletic, passionate, and entertaining players. Also, be sure to follow our Twitter @thunderousint for content on all things OKC Thunder.
OKC Thunder fans say goodbye to Hami:
https://twitter.com/bcsportchat/status/1370554616652308482
https://twitter.com/Three_Cone/status/1370544786223030274
https://twitter.com/ScaryShai/status/1370544400430854146
https://twitter.com/ThunderChats/status/1370544446887100418
https://twitter.com/okiefaith/status/1370554328453353479?s=21
Hami embodies the American dream.
— Yosef (@AirYosef) March 13, 2021
A child of immigrants who sacrificed so much to give their kids a better life, stayed on the right path, worked his butt off & made himself an NBA player. Always going to root for guys like him.
Thank you & good luck, @hamidoudiallo! #ThunderUp pic.twitter.com/LXYQfSjOtZ
Despite saying goodbye to a fan favorite, there’s no doubt that Hami will thrive in Detroit. He will also join former Thunder player Jerami Grant who has absolutely transformed into an All-Star caliber player.
There’s no reason why Hami won’t be able to do the same.
The thing we can hold on to is hope that Sam Presti and the front office know exactly what they are doing. It’s been a fun ride watching Hami’s growth early in his career.
What an athlete he is, with a very bright future ahead.