While most of the league used the All-Star break to recharge and reset, a few Oklahoma City Thunder players were still in the spotlight. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren, and rookie Jared McCain all took part in All-Star Weekend festivities, representing a franchise that’s quickly become one of the NBA’s most exciting young contenders.
But back home in Texas, another Thunder player was getting his flowers in a different way.
Cason Wallace, the 22-year-old guard who’s carved out a key role in OKC’s rotation, had his No. 22 jersey retired at Richardson High School. That’s where Wallace first made a name for himself, rising to five-star recruit status before heading to Kentucky for a one-and-done college season. Fast-forward to 2023, and the Thunder made him the 10th overall pick in the draft - a move that’s already paying dividends.
Now in his third NBA season, Wallace has become one of Oklahoma City’s most reliable defensive anchors. He’s not just a pesky on-ball defender - he’s in the thick of the race for the steals title, averaging two per game. His instincts, quick hands, and ability to read passing lanes have made him a nightmare for opposing guards and a perfect fit in the Thunder’s switch-heavy, high-energy defensive system.
Offensively, Wallace has held his own as well. He’s averaging 8.1 points per game on 42.4% shooting, with 3.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists. His 3-point shooting - 34.8% on nearly four attempts per game - has been steady, and while he’s not asked to be a primary scorer, his ability to knock down open looks and make smart decisions with the ball has made him a valuable piece in OKC’s deep, balanced lineup.
It’s easy to overlook role players on a team loaded with rising stars, but Wallace’s contributions were especially evident during the Thunder’s 2025 championship run. He embraced his role, delivered in key moments, and proved he can thrive under playoff pressure. That kind of experience - and the trust he’s earned from the coaching staff - is why he’s expected to be a long-term piece of this team’s core.
Looking ahead, Wallace is eligible for a contract extension this offseason, and it would be no surprise to see Oklahoma City lock him in for the foreseeable future. He fits their identity: tough, unselfish, and committed on both ends of the floor. As the Thunder continue to chase titles, having a player like Wallace - who does the little things and thrives in his role - is exactly the kind of stability a contender needs.
So while the All-Star break gave most players a chance to rest, Wallace used the time to reflect on how far he’s come - from Richardson High to NBA champion, and now, a cornerstone of one of the league’s brightest young teams.