After nearly two years away from the NBA, Isaiah Thomas has made his long-awaited return by signing a 10-day contract with the Phoenix Suns.
Thomas‘s inspiring journey back to the league he loves epitomizes passion and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Isaiah Thomas’s Illustrious Early Career
Drafted 60th overall in 2011 by the Sacramento Kings, the 5’9″ (1.75m) Thomas overcame perceptions about his size to become a dynamic offensive weapon.
After averaging 20.3 points per game in his third season, Thomas signed with the Suns in 2014.
Although he initially struggled to find his rhythm in Phoenix, Thomas hit his stride in January 2015, scoring over 20 points in four straight games.
His breakout in Phoenix was cut short by a trade to the Boston Celtics in February 2015.
This move proved fortuitous, as Thomas blossomed into an All-Star, earning Second Team All-NBA honors in 2017 after averaging 28.9 points per game.
However, just as Thomas entered his prime, severe hip injuries began plaguing him. He powered through during the 2017 playoffs despite a torn labrum, but his injuries ultimately necessitated surgeries in 2018 and 2020.
A Series of Setbacks
In the five seasons following his trade from Boston, Thomas bounced around the league seeking another opportunity while working tirelessly to recover from hip operations.
After last appearing in an NBA game in February 2021, many questioned whether he would play in the league again. Nevertheless, Thomas persisted, leaning on his self-belief and deep affection for basketball.
As Thomas rehabilitated from double hip surgery, his unwavering determination kept his NBA dream alive. Although many players might have walked away, Thomas loved the game too much to give up.
He drew inspiration thinking about being back on an NBA court with a smile on his face and competing at the sport’s highest level.
Persevering in the G League
In early March 2024, Thomas signed with the Salt Lake City Stars of the NBA G League to showcase he could still thrive against elite competition. He delivered an emphatic statement by averaging 32.5 points over four games, proving he had not lost his dynamic offensive skills.
Thomas‘s resilience in returning to full health and dominant form in the G League captured attention across the NBA. After years battling to get back, Thomas found vindication in the realization that his talent and game had returned just as he believed they would.
The Perfect Homecoming
After years of aiming to get back to the NBA, Thomas returning to the Suns creates a perfect poetic arc. Phoenix offers familiarity along with a clean slate to author the next uplifting chapter.
Thomas also joins at an ideal time, with the Suns primed for a playoff push that his veteran presence could bolster.
Beyond potential on-court contributions, Thomas will inspire teammates with his work ethic and infectious spirit. Players around the league and in Phoenix‘s locker room respect Thomas immensely for his perseverance battling back from injury.
Young Suns such as Devin Booker will benefit from Thomas‘s high basketball IQ and creative scoring mindset.
Sources:
www.onearabia.me/basketball/phoenix-suns-welcome-back-isaiah-thomas-on-10-day-contract-011-14683.html
arizonasports.com/story/3544626/isaiah-thomas-returns-nba-suns-injuries-derailed-prime/
