Payton Sandfort Explodes for Game-High 25 Points as Thunder Prospects Put on a Show in NBA Summer League
Former Iowa basketball standout Payton Sandfort delivered a statement performance on Monday night, reminding everyone why he remains one of the most intriguing young talents chasing an NBA opportunity.
Although the Oklahoma City Thunder came up short in an 82-77 defeat against the Atlanta Hawks during their second game of the NBA Summer League in Salt Lake City, Sandfort stole the spotlight with an outstanding offensive display that few players on the floor could match.
The former Hawkeye erupted for a game-high 25 points in just over 21 minutes of action, showcasing the shooting touch and confidence that made him one of Iowa’s most reliable scorers during his collegiate career.
Sandfort’s Hot Shooting Headlines the Night
Sandfort wasted little time making his presence felt. He knocked down six of his 10 field-goal attempts while catching fire from beyond the arc, connecting on four of his six three-point attempts. He also remained perfect at the free-throw line, converting all four of his attempts.
His final stat line reflected one of the most efficient scoring performances of the evening:
- 25 points
- 6-of-10 shooting from the field
- 4-of-6 from three-point range
- 4-of-4 from the free-throw line
- Four rebounds
- Two assists
- 21 minutes and 3 seconds played
Despite Oklahoma City’s loss, Sandfort’s offensive explosion was unquestionably the biggest individual performance of the contest. His ability to stretch the floor, score from multiple spots, and capitalize on scoring opportunities offered another reminder that he possesses NBA-caliber shooting ability.
For players competing in Summer League, every possession serves as an audition. Sandfort certainly made the most of his opportunity.
Bennett Stirtz Continues to Impress
Another former Iowa player who attracted attention was Bennett Stirtz.
Playing a team-high 29 minutes and eight seconds, Stirtz contributed across several areas of the game. He finished with:
- Nine points
- Three assists
- Two rebounds
While his scoring numbers were solid, one sequence stood out above the rest.
Stirtz delivered a perfectly timed give-and-go alley-oop pass to former Michigan center Aday Mara, producing one of the Thunder’s most entertaining highlights of the night against Atlanta.
The play demonstrated Stirtz’s court vision and willingness to involve teammates, qualities NBA organizations continue to value during Summer League competition.
Josh Dix Makes an Impact Beyond the Scoresheet
Not every contribution shows up in the scoring column, and Josh Dix provided an example of that on Monday night.
The former Iowa guard was held scoreless during his 17 minutes and 23 seconds on the court, but he still found ways to contribute by recording:
- Two assists
- One rebound
Although the shots didn’t fall for Dix, his passing and effort helped provide depth during Oklahoma City’s rotation throughout the game.
Summer League often gives young players opportunities to showcase different parts of their game, and contributions outside of scoring can still leave a positive impression on coaches and front-office executives.
Brendan Hausen Sees Action for Memphis
Elsewhere in NBA Summer League, another former Hawkeye was also in action.
Brendan Hausen suited up for the Memphis Grizzlies during their second Summer League game against the Utah Jazz.
Hausen logged nine minutes on the floor in Memphis’ 109-100 defeat. He finished with six points while shooting one of five from beyond the three-point line.
Although the Grizzlies were unable to secure the victory, the appearance provided Hausen with another valuable opportunity to continue adapting to the professional game and compete for future opportunities.
Former Hawkeyes Continue Chasing NBA Dreams
Monday’s Summer League action highlighted just how many former Iowa players are currently pursuing careers at basketball’s highest level.
Sandfort led the way with his remarkable scoring outburst, while Stirtz displayed his all-around game, Dix contributed as a facilitator, and Hausen continued earning valuable professional experience with Memphis.
Summer League remains one of the most important stages for young players looking to secure NBA roster spots, two-way contracts, or opportunities in professional basketball. Every game provides another chance to impress coaches, scouts, and executives.
For Sandfort, Monday night’s performance may have been his strongest statement yet.
Scoring 25 points on efficient shooting while leading all players in points demonstrates exactly the type of offensive production teams hope to see from players fighting for NBA opportunities.
Thunder Set for Final Salt Lake City Test
Oklahoma City won’t have much time to dwell on Monday night’s defeat.
The Thunder will wrap up their Salt Lake City Summer League schedule on Tuesday night when they take on the Utah Jazz at the Jon M. Huntsman Center.
Tip-off is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Central Time, with the game set to air on ESPNU and also available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
The matchup will provide another opportunity for Sandfort, Stirtz, Dix, and the rest of Oklahoma City’s young roster to continue building momentum before the next phase of Summer League competition.
After Monday’s breakout performance, all eyes will be on Payton Sandfort to see if he can deliver another scoring clinic and further strengthen his case for a future NBA role.
Iowa Basketball Continues Making Headlines
While several former Hawkeyes are making noise in NBA Summer League, Iowa basketball continues generating headlines elsewhere as well.
Among the latest developments surrounding the program:
- Iowa has extended an offer to five-star center Bentley Lusakueno in the 2028 recruiting class.
- A former Iowa guard has joined Jamaica’s roster for the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifying campaign.
- Payton Sandfort was previously waived by the Oklahoma City Thunder before later being added to the team’s NBA Summer League roster.
- A former Iowa basketball star was recently involved in a blockbuster NBA trade.
- Another Iowa guard agreed to a Summer League deal with the Memphis Grizzlies.
Those developments, combined with the performances of former Hawkeyes currently competing in Summer League, underline the growing presence of Iowa basketball talent across the professional ranks.
If Monday night’s performance is any indication, Payton Sandfort has every intention of ensuring his name remains at the center of that conversation.
