Challenges in the Life of Sam Presti in a Detailed Timeline

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Sam Presti. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Sam Presti is the current Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Oklahoma City Thunder since 2007. Appointed at age 29, he became the second-youngest GM in NBA history. As of now, he is also the third-longest tenured head of basketball operations in the NBA.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

2006: Sonics record

In the 2006-07 season, the Sonics had a 31-51 record.

2011: Reached the Western Conference Finals

In 2011, the Thunder reached the Western Conference Finals but lost to the Dallas Mavericks.

2012: Traded James Harden

In 2012, Sam Presti traded James Harden to the Houston Rockets after failing to reach a contract extension agreement. The Thunder received Kevin Martin, Jeremy Lamb, and draft picks in exchange. This decision faced heavy criticism.

2013: Playoffs: lost to the Memphis Grizzlies

In 2013, the Thunder finished first in the Western Conference with a 60-22 record. During the playoffs, Russell Westbrook suffered a season-ending injury, and the team fell to the Memphis Grizzlies in the second round.

2014: Lost in conference finals

In 2014, the Thunder finished with a 59–23 record as Kevin Durant was named NBA Most Valuable Player however the Thunder lost in the conference finals in a rematch with the San Antonio Spurs.

2018: Harden Wins MVP

In 2018, James Harden won the MVP award with the Houston Rockets, fueling criticism of the trade made by Presti in 2012.

2019: Trade of Paul George

In 2019, Presti traded Paul George to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, and a number of future draft picks.

2020: Began Rebuilding Process

In 2020, Presti began a rebuilding process with the Thunder, trading away key veterans in Chris Paul, who made an All-Star game and an All-NBA selection, Steven Adams, Danilo Gallinari, and Dennis Schröder.

2021: Began Rebuilding Process

In 2021, the Thunder traded away key veterans, Chris Paul, Steven Adams, Danilo Gallinari, and Dennis Schröder, and also drafted Josh Giddey, the 6th overall pick, in the 2021 NBA draft. The team also parted ways with head coach Billy Donovan.