Remember Marty Conlon: A Look Back at the OKC Thunder's No. 24 Jersey and His Brief but Notable Career
The Oklahoma City Thunder franchise, born from the ashes of the Seattle SuperSonics, boasts a rich and fascinating history. While stars like Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rightfully dominate the headlines, it's important to remember the players who paved the way, even those with shorter tenures. Today, we're taking a nostalgic look back at jersey number 24 and the player who briefly wore it with pride: Marty Conlon.
Conlon's connection to the Thunder lineage actually begins in Seattle. He played for the SuperSonics during the 1991-92 season, a pivotal time as the franchise prepared for its eventual relocation. It was during this year that Conlon exclusively wore jersey number 24. While his statistical contributions might not immediately jump out – averaging 2.7 points and 1.5 rebounds per game – his story represents a piece of the larger narrative of the team's evolution.
Let's delve deeper into who Marty Conlon was and what he brought to the court. Conlon was a gritty, hardworking guard known for his defensive tenacity and hustle. He wasn’t a flashy scorer, but he was a reliable role player who understood his role within the team structure. His work ethic and dedication were consistently praised by coaches and teammates.
The 1991-92 season was a transitional period for the SuperSonics. The team was navigating significant changes, both on and off the court. Conlon, while not a star, contributed to the team's overall effort and provided valuable depth off the bench. He was a part of a team that ultimately reached the playoffs, demonstrating the importance of every player, regardless of their scoring average.
While his time with the SuperSonics/Thunder was brief, Marty Conlon's jersey number 24 holds a quiet significance. It's a reminder that every player, even those who don't achieve widespread fame, contributes to the rich tapestry of a franchise's history. It’s a testament to the dedication and hard work of players who may not be household names but who nonetheless played a vital role in the team's journey.
Looking back at Conlon’s career, it's clear that he embodied the spirit of a team player – someone who prioritized the collective success over individual accolades. His story serves as a valuable reminder to appreciate the often-overlooked contributions of role players who help build the foundation for greatness.
So, the next time you see jersey number 24 associated with the OKC Thunder, remember Marty Conlon – a hardworking guard who, for a brief but memorable period, was part of the franchise's ongoing story.