Oklahoma City Thunder: Complete 2017 offseason grades

Thunder Select Terrance Ferguson No. 21

The Thunder owned the 21st overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. With this pick, the Thunder selected “international” shooting guard/small forward, Terrence Ferguson. Ferguson has played for Team USA in international competition but was labeled an international prospect after passing on the chance to play at Arizona to play overseas.

Ferguson struggled while playing for Adelaide in Australia. He played in 30 games, starting 17 of them. Ferguson played 15.2 minutes per game, averaging only 4.6 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 0.6 assists. He also struggled from the field, making only 38.1 percent of his shots and 31.3 percent from deep.

Despite the poor showing overseas, the Thunder took Ferguson because of the upside that he has. He was one of the better 3-and-D prospects in the class, standing 6’7″. Ferguson possessed a 6’9″ wingspan, making him a very good defender to go with excellent range on his jump shot.

There is some risk in taking Ferguson. He struggled overseas, which is cause for concern. However, he showed out well prior to that, making him a high upside, boom-or-bust prospect. It was a worthwhile gamble for the Thunder, especially since he will be able to develop and not be forced into playing time given the Thunder’s next move of the offseason.

Grade: B