Photo: Peter Baba

The Oklahoma City Thunder have continued to foster strong ties with former key players, including Serge Ibaka, reflecting a culture that values long-term relationships.

Rising big man Chet Holmgren recently shared his appreciation for that environment, according to Justin Martinez of The Oklahoman.

“I think it’s amazing. One, I think it speaks to the culture that those guys, Serge, still coming back around however many years since he left here,” Holmgren said.

“ … It was cool to sit down and talk to Serge about some of his experiences in this exact building. It’s been fun.“

Ibaka played 14 seasons for 5 teams, including the Thunder and Raptors. He averaged 12.0 points and 7.1 rebounds in 919 regular-season games.

He won 1 NBA championship.