Oklahoma City Thunder loud links: Thunder offseason news and notes

Undrafted rookie Bryce Alford has turned Summer League success into a training camp deal with the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Alford, 22, enjoyed four standout seasons with the UCLA Bruins, averaging 13.6 PPG and 3.6 APG while shooting 39.7% from three-point territory. These statistics impressed Golden State personnel, who added the 6’3 guard to its roster of Vegas League talent.

In Las Vegas, Alford held his own against touted 2017 draftees Lonzo Ball and Markelle Fultz, among others. During six Summer League outings Alford netted 9.3 PPG as his Warriors finished 2-4.

Recently, several training camp offers materialized for the Pac-12 standout, however, Alford chose Oklahoma City because of the franchise’s well-respected player development system.

While OKC holds 16 guaranteed contracts —a number which must drop to 15 by opening night— Alford could earn a newly available two-way contract which would allow him to split time between the OKC Blue and Thunder.

Upon signing his camp deal, an enthusiastic Alford updated his fans via Instagram.

Thunder to compete against NBL franchise during preseason play

After drafting Terrance Ferguson of Australia’s National Basketball League in June, the Thunder will host NBL standout Melbourne United on Oct 8.

This contest is part of a highlighted three-game, six-team NBA vs. NBL set which also features the Utah Jazz v Sydney Kings (Oct 2) and Brisbane Bullets v Phoenix Suns (Oct 13).

During an official press release NBL Executive Chairmain Larry Kestelman stated:

“This is a huge moment for Australian basketball. For the NBL to be able to play some of the biggest teams in the world shows how far our league has come. I want to thank the NBA for this exciting opportunity to showcase the NBL on the world stage. For our teams to be chosen to come and play in the NBA preseason is a great endorsement of the NBL and Australian basketball. We currently have a number of Australians playing in the NBA, strong national teams in the Boomers and Opals, record participation levels and a flourishing national competition. This opportunity will only build more excitement ahead of the NBL season starting on Oct. 5.”

NBA preseason play will begin September 30 and conclude Oct 13.