With the second overall pick in the 2022 NBA draft, the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday selected All-American Chet Holmgren from Gonzaga University.
Holmgren entered the draft viewed as one of the front-runners to be the No. 1 pick by the Orlando Magic, along with Duke forward Paolo Banchero and Jabari Smith Jr. from Auburn. Orlando took Banchero with the first pick, clearing the way for the Thunder to take Holmgren.
The Thunder were said to be locked in on Holmgren throughout the pre-draft process. They hosted him for a recent workout as the 7-footer had the opportunity to meet with Sam Presti and several members of the organization ahead of the draft on Thursday.
with the second pick…
@ChetHolmgren | #NBADraft pic.twitter.com/drEdv2E8w6
— OKC THUNDER (@okcthunder) June 24, 2022
Holmgren, who was named a consensus All-American, averaged 14.1 points, 9.9 rebounds, 3.7 blocks and 1.9 assists last season. He emerged as a strong prospect on both ends of the court and shot 39% from 3-point range on 3.3 attempts per game.
The 20-year-old was rumored to prefer to land with the Thunder given their roster and long-term outlook in the frontcourt. He projects to fit in well with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey, and is viewed as a key building block for the future.
Holmgren is said to have perhaps as much upside as any player in the draft this year. Joining a team in the midst of a rebuild, Holmgren will have the opportunity to log plenty of minutes next season and begin developing alongside a promising young nucleus.
The Thunder also have the 12th and 34th picks in the draft.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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