It’s a heartwarming comeback story for Payton Sandfort, the former Iowa Hawkeye, who’s back on the court after battling through a slew of injuries during his senior season. Playing with a broken wrist and torn labrums, Sandfort still managed to earn an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention, boasting averages of 16.3 points and 6.4 rebounds per game.
Though he slipped out of the 2025 NBA Draft, Sandfort’s determination didn’t waver. After completing his rehab, the Oklahoma City Thunder saw potential in him and signed him to a two-way contract.
In 17 games with the OKC Blue, their G-League affiliate, Sandfort impressed with averages of 10.9 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. With the Thunder roster hit by injuries, the door opened for Sandfort to make his NBA debut.
And what a debut it was. Facing the Brooklyn Nets on the road, the Thunder dominated with a 121-92 victory.
Sandfort seized the moment, scoring his first NBA points by sinking a three-pointer right in front of the Thunder bench. The joy was palpable as he sprinted back on defense, his teammates erupting in cheers, with Kenrich Williams throwing in a celebratory fist-pump.
Sandfort’s journey hasn’t been easy. His final seasons with the Hawkeyes were challenging, with the team’s struggles often unfairly pinned on him.
But seeing him now, thriving with the Oklahoma City Thunder, is a testament to his resilience. Here’s hoping this is just the beginning of a successful NBA career for Sandfort.