Oklahoma City Thunder agree to terms with back up point guard Norris Cole for remainder of season

The Oklahoma City Thunder recently agreed to a one-year minimum contract with two-time NBA champion Norris Cole.

Tuesday afternoon, Shams Chariana of The Vertical announced that Cole, who averaged 10.6 ppg and 3.7 apg for New Orleans last year, will join the Thunder for the remainder of this season.

Cole won back-to-back NBA titles as a key reserve for Miami during the 12’ and 13’ campaigns.

After remaining unsigned this offseason, the 28-year-old completed a brief stint with Li Shuangfu of the Chinese Basketball Association before suffering an undisclosed injury. Pursuant to this setback, Cole was released from his CBA contract, thus allowing the guard to clear appropriate waivers for an NBA return.

Oklahoma City’s trade-deadline deal with Chicago opened a roster spot that allowed GM Sam Presti to acquire Norris Cole. Presumably, the five-year veteran will assume primary back up duties for Russell Westbrook.

Overall, Cole has competed in 347 NBA contests, and holds averages of 7.1 ppg, 2.8 apg in 22.7 mpg. Cole’s 40/32/74 shooting split represents a marked upgrade from that of incumbent reserve point guard Semaj Christon.