3 unsung heroes who helped the OKC Thunder claim historic No. 1 seed

Aaron Wiggins

Memes are often made as a joke. For Aaron Wiggins and the Thunder, he indeed saved basketball. 

Wiggins, a versatile defender who impacts the game in a multitude of ways, has been the quintessential spark plug for Oklahoma City off the bench.

The 6-foot-5 forward and former 55th overall pick contributes more than what his averages of 6.9 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game may suggest. 

In whatever role he plays for the Thunder, he thrives. In 2023-24, his shooting has been incredible, his cutting has been elite, his drives have been sharp as ever, his offensive and defensive awareness has been commendable, and his hustle has been outstanding for the team.

Additionally, Wiggins also led the NBA in three-point percentage among players who shot at least 100 threes this season, making an impeccable 49.2 percent of his attempts from deep. That mark is the second-highest three-point percentage in Thunder history.

Making the most of his 15.7 minutes per game average, Wiggins’ all-around play is an important ingredient in OKC’s recipe for success this season. 

Often overlooked and overshadowed by the team's stars, Aaron Wiggins should be one of the cornerstones of this Thunder club moving forward, exemplifying the ethos it built in recent years.