The Oklahoma City Thunder has announced the signing of three promising free agents: Jazian Gortman, Zack Austin, and Chris Youngblood. All three athletes showcased their abilities with the Thunder during the recent Summer League. These strategic additions expand the team's offseason roster to its full capacity of 21 players, signaling a period of intensive evaluation and competition for future spots.
While the precise contractual details remain confidential, it is widely believed that Austin and Youngblood have secured Exhibit 10 contracts. It is highly probable that Gortman has also agreed to similar terms. Exhibit 10 contracts are a common mechanism in the NBA, offering players a chance to earn a regular-season roster spot or a two-way contract, particularly valuable for those looking to prove their worth.
Jazian Gortman, who went undrafted in 2023 after playing in Overtime Elite, spent the previous season gaining professional experience. He divided his time between the G League and the Dallas Mavericks organization. Notably, Gortman briefly held a two-way contract with the Mavericks, participating in 16 NBA games. His performance in the G League with the Texas Legends was impressive, where he averaged 20.0 points, 6.5 assists, and 3.9 rebounds, demonstrating his all-around potential and playmaking skills.
Zack Austin, another undrafted talent from the 2025 class, made a significant impact during his senior year at Pitt. He was recognized for his defensive prowess, earning All-Defensive honors. Offensively, Austin contributed an average of 9.2 points and 4.7 rebounds per game, showcasing his efficiency from beyond the arc with a 38.1% three-point shooting percentage. His defensive tenacity and shooting ability make him a valuable asset for the Thunder.
Chris Youngblood, also undrafted in 2025, comes to the Thunder after a notable “super senior” year at Alabama. During his time there, he was a consistent scorer, averaging 10.3 points per game. His efficient shooting splits further underscore his offensive capabilities, making him a strong contender for a roster spot.
The Thunder still has an available two-way slot, and the nature of Exhibit 10 contracts means they can be converted into more secure deals. This provides all three newly signed players with a significant opportunity to compete for a more extended tenure with the team. Their performances in the upcoming training camp and preseason will be critical in determining their future with the Oklahoma City Thunder, as they strive to transition from Summer League standouts to established NBA players.
