Isaiah Thomas is ready to make another push for an NBA comeback, returning to where it all began. The 35-year-old veteran guard is set to join the Sacramento Kings for a workout, rekindling memories of his initial foray into the league. Drafted by the Kings with the 60th pick in 2011, Thomas has experienced a whirlwind career marked by both impressive peaks and challenging valleys.
Thomas’ journey took a significant turn in the 2014 offseason when his tenure with Sacramento ended in a sign-and-trade deal. Since then, he has donned multiple jerseys, the most notable period being with the Boston Celtics, where his performances earned him a fifth-place finish in the MVP voting in 2017. However, a debilitating hip injury that same year drastically altered his trajectory, limiting him to fewer than 40 games in any season since then.
Despite his setbacks, Thomas’ unwavering dedication to the sport remains clear. Last season, he saw limited action, featuring in six games for the Phoenix Suns and another four for the G League's Salt Lake City Stars. Yet, the flame to compete at the highest level continues to burn brightly. "I want to play a year or two more," Thomas shared, expressing his desire to prolong his career. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," showcasing his readiness to seize any chance that comes his way.
His efforts to stay in shape and competitive have been relentless. Just last month, Thomas participated in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas, emphasizing his continuous pursuit of an NBA return. Now, the spotlight turns to Sacramento, a familiar setting for the seasoned point guard.
Joining the Kings' Workout
The Kings’ upcoming workout session isn’t solely focused on Thomas. It will also feature the likes of guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley. Each player brings their own unique story and skill set to the gym floor, hoping to impress the Kings’ coaching staff and front office.
Walker IV comes off a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, showcasing his shooting prowess by hitting 38.4% from beyond the arc. He averaged a noteworthy 20.1 points per 36 minutes, positioning himself as a promising offensive asset. Toscano-Anderson, meanwhile, has had a varied NBA experience, playing 11 games with the Kings during the 2023-24 season before wrapping up with the G League’s Mexico City Capitanes.
Tony Bradley, another player trying to secure his spot, spent his last season with the G League's Texas Legends. Each of these athletes, including Thomas, aims to leverage this opportunity to solidify their place in the league.
A Glimmer of Hope
For Thomas, this upcoming workout symbolizes more than just a professional audition; it’s a testament to his resilience and passion for basketball. Known for his scoring ability, playmaking, and leadership on and off the court, Thomas has faced formidable obstacles yet continues to strive for excellence.
"I want to play a year or two more," he stated with a sense of resolve, hinting at unfinished business in his career. His brief stints with the Suns and the G League last season suggest that there's still juice left in his tank, and he’s looking for the right fit to make a meaningful impact.
As the workout looms, all eyes will be on Thomas and his compatriots. Can he recapture some of the magic that once made him one of the league’s most electrifying players? The coming days in Sacramento will be crucial, not just for Thomas but for Walker IV, Toscano-Anderson, and Bradley, as they vie to earn a spot on the Kings’ roster or elsewhere in the league.
This session will reveal whether Isaiah Thomas can rise again, bringing his illustrious career a step closer to a fitting, competitive twilight. As he joins the Kings’ hopefuls on the court, the basketball community watches, waiting to see if this resilient warrior can once again defy the odds.