The Oklahoma City Thunder's journey from their roots as the Seattle SuperSonics to becoming a modern NBA powerhouse is defined by the legendary players who shaped their history. From thrilling playoff runs to record-breaking performances, here's an updated ranking of the franchise's greatest players, blending stats, clutch moments, and cultural impact.

3. James Harden: The Sixth Man Revolution

Before becoming a league MVP and Houston Rockets icon, James Harden built his Hall of Fame foundation in Oklahoma City. Drafted third overall in 2009, he quickly emerged as the NBA's most dangerous bench player. His 2011–12 season (16.8 points, 49.1% shooting) earned him the Sixth Man of the Year Award. Harden's creativity on offense—crossover dribbles, step-back threes, and playmaking—was vital in the Thunder's 2012 Finals run. Though traded to Houston in 2012, his role in OKC's "Big Three" era remains unforgettable.

2. Russell Westbrook: The Triple-Double Engine

Russell Westbrook redefined point Guard play during his 11 seasons in Oklahoma City. A 9-time All-Star and 2017 MVP, he became a cultural phenomenon with his relentless drives and unguardable athleticism. From 2016–17 to 2018–19, he averaged a triple-double for three straight seasons, including a historic 31.6 PPG/10.7 RPG/10.4 APG campaign. His playoff heroics—like a 45-point triple-double against Houston in 2019—showcased his "do-it-all" mentality. Even after leaving in 2019, Westbrook's passion and competitiveness remain central to Thunder lore.

1. Kevin Durant: The Scoring Supernova

Kevin Durant's seven seasons in Oklahoma City established him as basketball's most lethal scorer. Standing 6'10" with point guard skills, he won four scoring titles (2010–12, 2014) and the 2014 MVP award. His 2012 Finals run against Miami featured iconic moments like a 45-point outburst in the Western Conference Finals. Leading the Thunder to three straight NBA Finals appearances (2012, 2016–18), Durant's efficiency (55.5% FG% in OKC) and leadership cemented his legacy. Despite his controversial 2016 departure, his impact on the franchise and global basketball culture remains unmatched.

Honorable Mentions

• Gary Payton: "The Glove"

  Seattle's defensive legend (1990–2003) brought championship pedigree, winning DPOY in 1996 and leading the Supersonics to the 1996 Finals. His playmaking and trash-talking made him a fan favorite.

• Serge Ibaka: Defensive Wall

  A key part of OKC's interior defense during their prime years, averaging 2.5 blocks per game. His 2011–12 season featured 3.7 blocks per game, anchoring the Thunder's title window.

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The New Era

  Current franchise cornerstone averaging over 30 points per game for three consecutive seasons. Led the 2025 Thunder to a historic playoff run, embodying the team's rebuild-to-relevance story.

Conclusion

The Thunder's legacy lives through Durant's scoring artistry, Westbrook's fearless playmaking, and Harden's clutch brilliance. While Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a rising core signal exciting new directions, the "Big Three" era remains unparalleled. Their combination of skill, heart, and perseverance transformed Oklahoma City into a must-watch playoff destination. As the Thunder continue evolving, this golden generation's impact endures as a blueprint for team success.

Keywords: Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, James Harden, Oklahoma City Thunder