Oklahoma City Thunder General Manager Sam Presti held a post-season press conference on Monday (June 30) to discuss the team's recent success and future plans. The Thunder celebrated their first NBA Championship, and Presti highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum.
Presti addressed the contract situation of star player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who is eligible for a significant contract extension. Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA MVP, could sign a four-year, $293.4 million extension this summer or wait for a five-year, $379 million extension next summer. Although Presti did not delve into specifics, he assured fans that the Thunder is committed to securing Gilgeous-Alexander's long-term future with the team.
The press conference also touched on the challenges faced during the season, including Chet Holmgren's injury. Holmgren suffered a right iliac wing fracture, and Presti praised teammates Jaylin Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein for their support during the difficult time. Presti described their actions as "the greatest act of team support and teammate support he’d ever seen."
Looking ahead, Presti confirmed that Nikola Topić, the No. 12 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, will participate in the NBA Summer League after missing last season due to a knee injury. However, rookie center Thomas Sorber will not play. Jalen Williams is set to undergo wrist surgery after playing with a ligament tear.
Presti acknowledged the challenges of repeating as NBA champions, citing "randomness, hubris, and fatigue" as obstacles. He emphasized the need to "keep pressing on."