BREAKING: Oklahoma City Thunder Select Versatile Northwestern Star Brooks Barnhizer With the 44th Overall Pick in 2025 NBA Draft

The Oklahoma City Thunder have added another key piece to their championship-caliber roster, selecting Northwestern forward Brooks Barnhizer with the 44th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. The pick, made early in the second round, highlights the Thunder’s continued emphasis on versatile, high-IQ players who can contribute immediately on both ends of the floor.

Barnhizer, a 6-foot-6 wing, emerged as one of the most experienced and adaptable players in this year’s draft class. His selection by Oklahoma City comes just days after the franchise celebrated its first NBA championship in over a decade, defeating the Indiana Pacers in a thrilling seven-game Finals series. With the confetti barely swept from the streets of Oklahoma City following the title parade, Thunder General Manager Sam Presti and his front office wasted no time identifying players who fit their winning culture.

“Brooks Barnhizer is the type of player who makes your team better the moment he steps on the floor,” Presti said following the pick. “He brings toughness, versatility, and a relentless work ethic, all qualities we value tremendously here in Oklahoma City.”

Barnhizer’s road to the NBA has been defined by steady development and on-court intelligence. During his collegiate career with Northwestern, the Lafayette, Indiana native became known for his tenacity, defensive prowess, and ability to impact games in a variety of ways. In his final season with the Wildcats, Barnhizer averaged 14.6 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, while shooting an efficient 47% from the field. His 1.8 steals per game further highlighted his defensive instincts, making him a disruptive presence on the perimeter.

Perhaps more importantly, Barnhizer was lauded by scouts for his basketball IQ and team-first mentality. He often guarded the opponent’s top wing player while seamlessly filling gaps offensively, whether that meant spotting up from three, cutting off the ball, or initiating offense when necessary. His skill set is expected to complement the Thunder’s dynamic core, led by Finals MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, rising star Jalen Williams, and elite defender Chet Holmgren.

For Barnhizer, hearing his name called by the reigning NBA champions was a moment of fulfillment and excitement.

“It’s a dream come true,” Barnhizer said in a post-selection interview. “To be part of an organization like the Thunder, especially coming off a championship, is incredible. I can’t wait to get to work and do whatever it takes to help this team stay at the top.”

The 2025 NBA Draft was marked by a deep class of wings and versatile defenders, with many teams prioritizing two-way players who can switch across positions. Oklahoma City’s selection of Barnhizer fits squarely within that trend, as his defensive versatility and ability to play multiple roles on offense give head coach Mark Daigneault added flexibility.

Daigneault, known for his defensive schemes and player development acumen, is expected to integrate Barnhizer into the Thunder’s rotation gradually, though some believe the rookie could carve out a role sooner rather than later. Given his size, motor, and defensive chops, Barnhizer projects as an ideal complement in small-ball lineups or as a wing defender alongside the likes of Caruso, Lu Dort, and Williams.

It’s also worth noting Barnhizer’s leadership and intangibles, traits that Northwestern head coach Chris Collins repeatedly praised during the draft process.

“Brooks is a winner, plain and simple,” Collins said after the pick was announced. “He’s the type of player who does the dirty work, makes the extra pass, takes the tough assignments—he’s been the heart and soul of our team, and I’m so proud to see him get this opportunity.”

Barnhizer’s development over his collegiate career was emblematic of Northwestern’s broader success. Under Collins, the Wildcats posted consecutive winning seasons and made back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances, with Barnhizer often playing a central role. His performance during the Big Ten schedule earned him All-Big Ten honors, and his strong showings in pre-draft workouts elevated his stock into the early second round.

For the Thunder, the selection of Barnhizer reinforces the franchise’s commitment to building a sustainable, defense-oriented contender. Despite their youth, Oklahoma City proved this season that they can compete—and win—at the highest level, capturing the Larry O’Brien Trophy with a blend of stifling defense, unselfish offense, and outstanding player development.

Adding Barnhizer to that mix not only strengthens their depth but also aligns with the team’s philosophy of acquiring players who fit seamlessly into their system. His defensive switchability, rebounding ability, and willingness to play within a team framework make him a valuable addition, particularly as the Thunder navigate the challenges of maintaining success in the ultra-competitive Western Conference.

The selection also speaks to Oklahoma City’s confidence in their developmental infrastructure. The Thunder have built a reputation for turning overlooked or underappreciated prospects into impactful contributors, with recent examples including Jalen Williams’ rise from a mid-first-round pick to an All-Star caliber player. Barnhizer, with his work ethic and adaptable skill set, could follow a similar trajectory, especially given the resources and mentorship available within the organization.

For Thunder fans, the pick adds another reason for optimism as the franchise transitions from championship underdogs to perennial contenders. With Gilgeous-Alexander entering his prime, Holmgren providing rim protection and floor spacing, and a host of role players embracing their responsibilities, the Thunder have constructed a deep, cohesive roster capable of sustained success.

Brooks Barnhizer may not have been the most high-profile name in this year’s draft, but his selection reflects Oklahoma City’s deliberate, calculated approach to team building. Rather than chasing flashy picks or short-term fixes, the Thunder continue to identify players who elevate the collective, embodying the franchise’s identity as one built on defense, versatility, and unrelenting competitiveness.

As for Barnhizer, the opportunity to join a championship team with a passionate fan base represents the ideal start to his NBA journey. The work begins immediately, with Summer League providing an early glimpse of his potential impact.

In the end, Oklahoma City’s 44th overall pick might not dominate headlines like the lottery selections, but history has shown that second-round gems often become critical pieces for championship teams. For Brooks Barnhizer, the mission is clear: embrace the Thunder culture, earn his role, and help the reigning champions stay on top.