Isaiah Thomas' basketball odyssey took another turn on January 28, 2025, as he made his anticipated return to the NBA G League with the Salt Lake City Stars, showcasing he still has the scoring touch he became renowned for. The two-time NBA All-Star stunned fans and scouts alike, pouring in 40 points against the Valley Suns, even as his team faced a 122-115 defeat.
Activting his stint with the Stars, Thomas shot 13-for-28 from the field and added eight assists to his impressive performance. This not only marked his return to competitive play but also highlighted his relentless determination to reclaim his spot on the NBA roster. “40 PTS ⭐️ 8 AST ⭐️ 4 3PM WELCOME BACK, ISAIAH THOMAS!” exclaimed the official NBA G League social media account, celebrating his high-scoring season debut.
At 35 years old, Thomas is well aware of the challenges ahead. His road back to the NBA hasn’t been easy; he last stepped onto the court for the Phoenix Suns during the 2023-2024 season, appearing briefly over six games. His career significantly shifted after suffering a debilitating hip injury during the 2016-17 season. Before this injury, Thomas had solidified his reputation as one of the league's elite scorers, particularly during his time with the Boston Celtics, where he led the league with 28.9 points per game.
Despite the uphill battle, Thomas remains undeterred. The former All-NBA performer has bounced around the league, playing for eight different teams since his injury. Holding career averages of 17.5 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 4.8 assists from 556 regular-season games, his legacy remains one of potential and perseverance. “I still want it,” Thomas asserted, acknowledging the uphill climb yet refusing to accept the narrative of retirement.
The Salt Lake City Stars activated Thomas from their returning player rights on January 28, sparking excitement for fans and spectators alike. He became eligible to compete after stellar performances earlier this season, where he averaged 32.5 points over four games for the Stars. His previous outings included remarkable scoring bursts, with two games where he netted 34 points.
While some might doubt the viability of Thomas making it back to the NBA, history is on his side. Across the annals of basketball, many iconic players have orchestrated come-from-behind tales. For example, Michael Jordan's return from retirement and later stints with memorabilia-producing dominance serve as prime evidence of the potential for triumphant resurgences.
Players such as Earl Boykins and Chauncey Billups have exhibited second winds, succeeding against the odds, ushering back the time-honored narrative of redemption. Thomas aims to join their ranks, but it will require sustained performance and possibly, the right team fit.
The April call-up by the Suns last season, though brief, showed Thomas can still spark interest at the highest levels of competitive basketball. His latest performance and contributions could signal clubs to take another look as they contend for playoff positions; they might just find they need Thomas’ explosive scoring capabilities, charisma, and leadership.
The match against the Valley Suns not only offered entertainment but served as part of Thomas’ broader campaign to prove his readiness and skill to the NBA higher-ups. It was also notable as part of scheduled promotional events at the Mavericks Center, including the Stars’ annual Autism Acceptance Night, focusing on community engagement.
“Today is just the stepping stone,” Thomas declared, summing up the night’s effort. His competitive spirit remains unyielded, paving the way for more opportunities to take the stage.
For the Salt Lake City Stars and Thomas, this is not merely about statistics, wins, or losses; it is about passion, resilience, and hope. The basketball world is now eagerly watching as Thomas etches the next chapter of his post-NBA life through determination and hard work. Will this be the beginning of another significant chapter or merely another moment faded by time? Only time will tell.