In the late 1990s, an ordinary pickup basketball game during an Aspen basketball camp crossed paths between young collegiate guard Sam Presti and San Antonio Spurs brass (including executive R.C. Buford). Presti's high-IQ play, composure, and hustle caught their attention, sparking a conversation that earned him an unpaid Spurs video intern position. By 2007 at age 29, Presti was tapped to helm the Seattle SuperSonics / Oklahoma City Thunder front office, reshaping modern NBA roster construction.
Franchise Evolution & Rebuilding Phases
Drafted Kevin Durant (2007), Russell Westbrook (2008), Serge Ibaka (2008), and James Harden (2009). Built one of the most prolific young cores in league history from scratch.
Consistently reached Western Conference Finals; transitioned after Durant's exit by retaining Westbrook (2017 MVP) and trading for Paul George, remaining a Western playoff staple.
Executed the landmark PG13 trade yielding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and unprecedented draft capital. Drafted Chet Holmgren & Jalen Williams, soaring back to the #1 seed in the West.