Isaiah Thomas, the two-time NBA All-Star, is taking another shot at reviving his professional basketball career. On January 27, 2025, it was announced he has signed with the Salt Lake City Stars, the G League affiliate of the Utah Jazz. This move marks Thomas's second stint with the Stars as he seeks to make his way back to the NBA at the age of 35.
Last season, during a brief four-game run with the Stars, Thomas showcased his scoring prowess by averaging 32.5 points and boasting a shooting percentage of 44.6% from three-point range. His performance caught the eye of the Phoenix Suns, leading to two 10-day contracts and participation with them for the remainder of the 2023-2024 season.
Having spent the last few years bouncing around various teams and struggling with injuries, Thomas’s path to success has not been easy. His career took a downturn after suffering a hip injury during the 2016-17 season, which hampered his abilities and limited his appearances across the league. Despite being the last pick of the 2011 NBA Draft, Thomas proved naysayers wrong by elevering his play to elite levels, particularly during his time with the Boston Celtics. There, he averaged 28.9 points per game and finished fifth in the MVP voting during the 2016-2017 season. Once thought of as one of the league's up-and-coming stars, he now faces the reality of proving himself yet again.
When Thomas debuted for the Stars last season, he did not disappoint, leading the team to victory with 32 points, four assists, and five rebounds against the Texas Legends. His display was received with excitement, as highlights of his performance circulated widely, with responses like "He’s back!" lighting up social media.
With the Stars, he hopes to rekindle the magic of his previous performances. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, Thomas is anticipated to make his 2024-2025 debut for the Stars this week. Analysts speculate on the potential rebounds Thomas could have, considering his consistent drive to prove his capabilities.
Despite his impressive G League statistics, the challenges remain significant. The G League serves as both an opportunity for players to showcase their talents and as a proving ground upon which to catch the attention of NBA teams seeking depth or backcourt help. Every performance could be his ticket back to the NBA, should any teams experience injuries or require immediate fixes.
Currently, no predictions appear certain for Thomas. With previous statistical achievements, such as his 8 points and 1.3 assists over limited playtime with the Suns, the stakes are high. It is unclear whether he will reclaim his status as an NBA regular or whether he will merely offer seasoned leadership on the Stars roster.
Thomas himself appears undeterred. Amid the ups and downs, he expresses hopes and ambitions of returning to the top tier of basketball once more. His option to pursue this path also speaks volumes about his character and relentless commitment to the game. Each game brings another opportunity to prove he still has the skillset to play at the highest level.
Reflecting on his career, many analysts continue to highlight Thomas as "one of the biggest 'What Ifs'" of the league's history. His storied past with the Sacramento Kings, Boston Celtics, and the various other teams show resilience and dedication, qualities inherent to the athlete's frame. His smattering of All-Star appearances serves as reminders of how talent can shine, even from the smaller stature such as his 5-foot-9 frame.
With all eyes on Thomas, fans and critics alike are wondering if this comeback will lead him back to the bright lights of the NBA courts. The anticipation builds as he steps onto the court for the Stars, with many hoping to see flashes of brilliance like those he displayed during his prime.
Regardless of the outcome, his foray back through the G League symbolizes Thomas's indomitable spirit and desire to once more become part of professional basketball's elite community.