Isaiah Thomas Returns to Sacramento for Kings’ Workout
Isaiah Thomas, at the age of 35, is making headlines with his anticipated return to Sacramento. The seasoned guard, who began his NBA journey with the Kings after being selected with the 60th pick in the 2011 draft, is set to join the current Kings' players for a workout session. This workout marks a significant moment for Thomas, whose tenure with the Kings ended in a sign-and-trade deal during the 2014 offseason.
Thomas’s Journey and Comeback
The former All-Star has experienced a tumultuous ride in his professional career, highlighted by a standout 2017 season with the Boston Celtics where he finished fifth in MVP voting. However, Thomas's journey has been marred by a lingering hip injury that has significantly limited his playtime; he has played fewer than 40 games in any season since 2017. Despite these setbacks, his determination remains undeterred. "I want to play a year or two more," Thomas said, showcasing his grit and passion for the game.
Last season, Thomas played six games for the Phoenix Suns and spent time in the G League with the Salt Lake City Stars, appearing in four games. His most recent efforts to return to the NBA saw him participate in workouts with the Milwaukee Bucks in Las Vegas last month. "I was talking to a few teams and waiting for an opportunity," Thomas mentioned, indicating that his resolve to find a place in the league remains strong.
Kings’ Workout Roster
Thomas’s return is not the only point of interest in the upcoming workout session. He will be joined by guard Lonnie Walker IV, forward Juan Toscano-Anderson, and big man Tony Bradley, each bringing their own narratives and aspirations to the table.
Lonnie Walker IV recently completed a productive season with the Brooklyn Nets, where his shooting accuracy from beyond the arc stood at an impressive 38.4%. In addition to his shooting prowess, Walker averaged 20.1 points per 36 minutes, demonstrating his offensive capabilities. His inclusion in the workout adds a dynamic edge to the session.
Juan Toscano-Anderson, another notable presence, played 11 games for the Kings in the 2023-24 season before transitioning to the G League's Mexico City Capitanes. Toscano-Anderson's journey through the NBA and G League underscores his resilience and adaptability, qualities that will be beneficial in the upcoming training session.
Completing the trio is Tony Bradley, who spent last season with the Texas Legends in the G League. Bradley's contributions as a big man could play a crucial role in balancing the squad’s dynamics during the workout, offering insights into his potential future with the team.
A Glimmer of Hope and Experience
Isaiah Thomas's return to Sacramento not only stirs memories of his initial NBA steps but also epitomizes his enduring spirit and tenacity. It remains to be seen how his current form and fitness align with the team’s expectations. Nevertheless, his presence is sure to bring a wealth of experience and a competitive edge that could inspire younger players during the workout session.
The forthcoming workout with the Kings represents more than just a chance for these players to showcase their skills; it symbolizes hope, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the ever-demanding world of professional basketball.