CONFIRMED: Oklahoma City Thunder Grants Immediate Release to $490,000 Player Amid New Opportunity
Oklahoma City, OK โ September 20, 2025 โ The Oklahoma City Thunder has officially confirmed the immediate release of a player from their NBA roster, clearing the way for the $490,000-contract athlete to pursue a new opportunity outside of the organisation.
Head Coach Mark Daigneault made the announcement during a media availability session earlier today, stating that the playerโwhose name has not yet been disclosed publiclyโwas granted a mutual release from his current contract.
โWeโve agreed to an immediate release for one of our guys to pursue another opportunity,โ Daigneault said. โWe appreciate his professionalism during his time with the team and wish him nothing but success in the next chapter of his career.โ
Details Still Emerging
While the Thunder organization has not provided specific details about the nature of the new opportunity, sources close to the situation suggest that it may involve either an international playing contract or a transition into a non-playing role such as coaching or personal development.
The player was on a minimum-value deal reportedly worth $490,000, a figure typical for developmental or two-way contract players within the NBA. He was considered a depth piece on the Thunder roster and appeared in limited games last season.
Thunderโs Official Statement
In a brief statement released by the team, the Thunder said:
โWe can confirm that we have agreed to the immediate release of one of our contracted players. We support his decision to explore new opportunities and thank him for his contributions to the team.โ
The statement also hinted at a potential roster move in the near future, noting: โThe organization will evaluate potential roster adjustments in the coming days.โ
A Growing Trend?
This move continues a broader NBA trend where younger or fringe-roster players are seeking greater opportunity overseas or in alternative leagues such as the NBL (Australia), EuroLeague, or the new NBA Africa initiatives, where playing time and long-term roles may be more accessible.
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Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available, including the player’s next destination and what this move means for the Oklahoma City Thunder’s roster moving forward.
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