Isaiah Joe may be on his way to the Detroit Pistons, but he’s still giving Oklahoma City one more meaningful moment before the goodbye becomes permanent.
A week after his trade became official, Joe spent part of his time back in OKC helping raise money for a cause close to him. His foundation is putting on a two-day fundraiser for the pediatric cardiology programs at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital OU Health and Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Sunday’s portion centered on wine and auction bidding, while Monday brought a round of golf at a local OKC course.
The turnout said plenty about the bond Joe built during his four seasons with the Thunder. Even after the trade, he drew support from public figures across the state, a reminder that his connection to Oklahoma City has outlasted his roster spot. For Joe, who grew up about three hours away in Arkansas, the event carried a personal feel as he closed one chapter and looked toward the next.
"They take care of their guys. Even when you're not here, you're still here.
That's the mindset that they have," Joe said. "To make sure that people are taken care of past the parameters of the organization here.
It speaks volumes."
Joe’s exit came as part of a broader roster shakeup after the Thunder fell five wins short of their back-to-back goal. Oklahoma City moved a pair of longtime role players to the East in cost-cutting moves, and Joe was sent to Detroit for two future second-round picks.
The decision came despite what was easily the best regular season of Joe’s career. He shot 42.3% from 3 on six attempts this past year, the kind of spacing that should fit well next to Cade Cunningham, just as it did alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. But by the end of the playoff run, Joe had slipped outside the rotation.
Even so, his place in Thunder history is secure. He was part of Oklahoma City’s 2025 championship team, helping deliver the franchise’s first Larry O’Brien trophy. That kind of run leaves a mark, and Joe made clear the feeling goes both ways.
"Given we kinda achieved what everybody seeks out to do. I loved this place through and through.
Even when I'm gone, I'm still going to love it," Joe said. "Every fan that ever cheered for me.
That stuff doesn't go unnoticed. I love this city through and through.
Still pulling. Even when I'm away."
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