In a development that has excited many basketball aficionados, Isaiah Thomas is set to make a notable return to the court, participating in a workout with the Sacramento Kings’ players. The 35-year-old guard, once a formidable force in the NBA, began his illustrious career with the Kings after being selected as the 60th pick in the 2011 draft.
During his initial tenure with the Kings, Thomas quickly established himself as a tenacious competitor, showcasing his remarkable scoring ability despite his diminutive stature. His time in Sacramento concluded with a sign-and-trade deal in the 2014 offseason, setting him on a path that included memorable stints with several other NBA teams. Perhaps most notably, Thomas finished fifth in MVP voting in 2017 while playing for the Boston Celtics, highlighting a peak in his career that resonated across the league.
A Career Plagued by Injury
In recent years, however, Thomas' journey has been marred by a persisting hip injury, which has severely limited his playing time. Since 2017, he has struggled to play more than 40 games in any given season, prompting setbacks and uncertainties about his future in professional basketball. Despite these challenges, Thomas remains undeterred, expressing a steadfast commitment to continue his career. "I want to play a year or two more," he shared, emphasizing his desire to stay active in the league.
A Glimpse of Optimism
Last season, Thomas found opportunities to keep his NBA dreams alive, briefly joining the Phoenix Suns for six games and later spending time with the G League's Salt Lake City Stars for an additional four games. Most recently, Thomas participated in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas, signaling his ongoing quest for a stable spot on an NBA roster. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," he noted, underscoring his relentless pursuit for a return to the compelling world of professional basketball.
The Upcoming Kings Workout
The upcoming workout with the Kings is particularly significant as it reunites Thomas with the franchise where it all began. Alongside Thomas, the Kings will also scrutinize other potential talent, including guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley.
Walker IV, coming off a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, boasts an impressive shooting percentage of 38.4% from beyond the arc, averaging 20.1 points per 36 minutes. His shooting prowess and agility make him a promising candidate to bolster the Kings' backcourt. Meanwhile, Toscano-Anderson, who featured in 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before wrapping up with the G League's Mexico City Capitanes, is also vying for a more permanent position. Lastly, Tony Bradley, who spent the last season with the G League's Texas Legends, will look to showcase his capabilities as a dynamic big man.
For Isaiah Thomas, the workout serves as another chapter in his determined quest to remain relevant and impactful in the NBA. As he gears up for what could be a pivotal moment, fans and analysts alike will be watching keenly to see if the veteran guard can reclaim his place in the league. With his enduring spirit and proven track record, Thomas' journey continues to inspire, reminding many of the resilience and passion that defines the essence of professional sports.