Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey was well aware he’d face questions about the Oklahoma City Thunder, his former team, as he readied himself for the matchup. Despite now suiting up for Chicago, Giddey’s admiration and respect for the Thunder remained evident, and he expressed nothing but gratitude toward his previous organization.
“When you play your former team, you obviously circle it on your calendar,” Giddey reflected, highlighting the significance of the game. “But you’ll never, ever hear me say a bad word about that organization. Top to bottom, unbelievable people. I’m looking forward to seeing them all. I love that organization.”
Giddey’s respect for the Thunder organization extended beyond basketball, underscoring the positive experiences and relationships he formed during his time there. Although he’s now focused on his role with the Bulls, Giddey’s words reflected a genuine appreciation for the team and the people he left behind.
On the other side, Oklahoma City center Chet Holmgren echoed similar sentiments about reconnecting with Giddey, emphasizing that the bonds formed in the league often outlast the professional changes players inevitably face.
“I think you can get wrapped up in the business of what this is,” Holmgren said thoughtfully, “because it is a business, and it’s an extremely serious business. But you can’t lose sight of the relationships that you build with guys you know along the way. I don’t think anybody’s ever played with the same 15, 17 people their entire career. That’s how the league works. People and teams have to do what’s best for them business-wise. And you can’t hold that against anybody. When you get to go out there and hoop against guys that you know and you really like, you enjoy it all the same.”
Holmgren’s reflection highlighted the transient nature of NBA careers. While trades and team changes are an accepted part of the professional landscape, he stressed that the personal connections built along the way remain just as significant as the competition.
Both he and Giddey showed that, despite the sometimes cutthroat business of basketball, the league is also filled with meaningful friendships that transcend team affiliations. For these players, games against former teammates are more than just a test of skill – they’re a reunion and a reminder of the bonds that define life in the NBA.
Josh Giddey Has Nothing Bad To Say About The Thunder https://t.co/evg4h0AJCK
— RealGM (@RealGM) October 27, 2024
