The Oklahoma City Thunder have selected just two players from North Carolina Central University in the franchise's draft history, with neither making the final roster. David Binion and David Young were the only Eagles drafted by the organization, a fact that highlights the wide net the Thunder have cast in their search for talent. The team is currently in preseason action, coming off a close 126-128 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks on October 7.
The Oklahoma City Thunder drafted forward David Binion in the 10th round of the 1983 NBA Draft. He was the 221st overall pick. Details about his collegiate career at NC Central are not fully recorded, and he did not ultimately make the Thunder's team. Two decades later, the franchise selected another forward, David Young, in the 2004 NBA Draft. Young was taken in the second round as the 41st overall pick after playing three seasons for the Eagles. Like Binion, he also did not secure a spot on the Thunder's regular season roster.
Oklahoma City's strategy has long involved evaluating talent from every level of college basketball. They've found stars from powerhouse programs but have also scouted smaller schools like NC Central. This comprehensive approach is a key part of their identity. It allows them to uncover hidden gems and build a deep, competitive team. Their recent preseason schedule, including a 110-116 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans on October 6, tests this assembled talent.
The team is fine-tuning its lineup during the 2026 preseason. Their last two outings were narrow defeats against strong Eastern and Western Conference opponents. These games provide valuable minutes for roster players and trialists alike. Head coach Mark Daigneault is assessing rotations, defensive schemes, and offensive sets before the games start to count. Every possession in these exhibitions helps determine the final squad composition for the long NBA campaign ahead.
The Thunder's immediate focus shifts to their next preseason fixture, an away game against the Atlanta Hawks on October 12. This will be another test for the team's perimeter defense and offensive execution. After that, the regular season beckons. The preseason results are not as important as the process and player evaluation. Oklahoma City's history shows that success can come from any draft pick, whether from a major conference or a school like NC Central. Fans can look ahead to the full schedule on our schedule page.
