Sonics Acquire Kurt Thomas and Two First-Round Picks
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July 20, 2007
SEATTLE - The Seattle SuperSonics announced today they have acquired Kurt Thomas from the Phoenix Suns, along with the Suns’ 2008 and 2010 first-round draft picks. To execute the transaction, the Sonics utilized the trade exception that was created in the Rashard Lewis sign-and-trade deal with the Orlando Magic. As part of the deal, Phoenix receives the future conditional second-round pick acquired by the Sonics from the Magic.
Thomas, a 12-year NBA veteran out of Texas Christian University, averaged 4.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game in 67 games for the Suns last year. The 6-9 F/C was the 10th overall selection by the Miami Heat in the 1995 NBA Draft. He holds career averages of 10.1 points and 7.4 rebounds per game. Statistically, Thomas’ best season was in 2001-2002 when he averaged 13.9 points and 9.1 rebounds per game for the New York Knicks.
“We are extremely pleased to acquire Kurt and the first-round draft picks in 2008 and 2010,” said Sonics General Manager Sam Presti. “Kurt represents the identity we are trying to establish for the Sonics. He is a tenacious defender and rebounder, and is a strong veteran presence and leader for our team. The draft picks allow us to continue to build our team while also giving us flexibility in the future.”
Thomas is very active in the NBA’s community relations efforts. In 2004 he was the winner of the NBA Community Assist Award, an award that is given by the NBA to recognize players for their charitable efforts. The award honors the NBA player who reflects the passion that the league and its players have for giving back to their communities.
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