Victor Oladipo, who was twice an NBA All-Star and was named the 2018 Most Improved Player, is making a strong push for an NBA return, and he is doing it on his own terms.
During the weekend of the NBA Summer League, Oladipo used his spotlight to host private workouts and participate in 5-on-5 runs in front of key decision-makers. Executives, scouts, and agents arrived in town to evaluate young talent, but Oladipo ensured that they also observed a veteran who is still hungry to compete.
“He looked good and explosive. I could see him helping a team,” one source in attendance told RG. “He can still hoop. He’s in shape and wants it.”
Oladipo, whose age is 33, is hoping to defy the odds once again. The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft has dealt with multiple injuries over the past few seasons, including a series of knee and quadriceps issues that have derailed what was once a soaring career. However, the former Indiana Hoosiers star has remained steadfast. Oladipo made 42 appearances for the Miami Heat during the 2022-23 season and scored 10.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. According to the numbers, he can still be a productive role player if he is healthy. His defensive instincts, quick first step, and scoring ability continue to draw attention around the league.
Oladipo’s list of destinations includes Orlando, Oklahoma City, Indiana, Houston, and Miami. He excelled in Indiana, becoming an All-NBA guard and one of the best two-way players in the league. Earning All-Star and All-Defensive honors, he helped the Pacers become one of the league’s most surprising playoff teams by averaging 23.1 points and leading the league in steals. Oladipo is looking forward to starting a new chapter now that he has fully recovered from his most recent injury setbacks.
His workouts in Las Vegas were more than just a show-and-tell. They were a statement that he’s ready to contribute and mentor in a league always seeking veteran presence and scoring depth. Teams that need guard depth, experience, and locker room leadership may now be paying closer attention to Oladipo due to training camps approaching in the fall. Victor Oladipo is determined to prove his worth as a veteran or a steadying influence on a young roster. His weekend in Vegas suggests he’s not far off from getting that chance.
