The NBA dream is still alive, even if your name isn’t called on draft night.
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Just ask Hollis Thompson, who was not selected in the 2012 NBA Draft, but was signed by the Thunder on July 11 as a free agent. The Georgetown product spent three years in Washington, D.C., and racked up career averages of 8.7 points, 4.1 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 24.6 minutes per game. He also set a school record with 44.0 percent shooting from 3-point range during his career.
During his junior year, the 6-foot-8, 212-pound Thompson was named All-Big East Honorable Mention after scoring in double figures on 25 occasions and averaging a career-high 12.8 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game.
Thompson, a Los Angeles native, just arrived in Oklahoma City to continue his rehab on a minor left groin injury, and is expected to return to full off-season activities in the next few weeks. At his introductory photo shoot on Tuesday, Thompson, who will be wearing number 21 for the Thunder, took the time to chat with THUNDER.NBA.COM about making the transition from college to the professional ranks.
On joining the Thunder, and what he knew about the organization before he signed:
It’s very exciting. I know it’s a great organization and you guys are doing great things here, so I’m glad to be a part of the program.
On his plans for this summer:
I’m just looking forward to getting with the coaches and seeing what they want from me and getting better.
On his strengths as a player and what he wants to work on:
I think I learned how to play the game at Georgetown, I learned how to score. I’m looking forward to just ramping up my game in other areas.
On if he’ll have the chance to watch Team USA and if he’s talked to any Thunder players:
I do have a TV, so I’ll catch them playing. I talked a little to (Kendrick) Perkins, but that’s about it. And Perry (Jones).
On if he knows Russell Westbrook and James Harden, fellow Los Angeles natives:
I know Russ from L.A. I never met James, but I’m really excited to play with them.
On his favorite community service experience:
I did a lot of community service in high school and college. I don’t have one particular one in mind, but I feel like every time I do something like that, it’s a great experience. I love working with people in the community, and kids especially.