Former Alabama Guard Shined in NBA Preseason Debut

Chris Youngblood had an impressive debut with the Oklahoma City Thunder on Sunday during his NBA preseason debut.

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Youngblood played 21 minutes, recording 20 points (7-of-11 shooting, 5-of-8 from 3-point range), three rebounds, and one assist. He came off the bench, making his presence known as the Thunder beat the Charlotte Hornets 135-114.

Youngblood impressed during the NBA's Summer League in Las Vegas. He averaged 20 points, shot 63% from the field and 61.5% from beyond the arc, according to The Oklahoman. In a game against the Brooklyn Nets, he scored 19 points (7-of-10 shooting, 3-of-5 from 3-point range), with five rebounds and two steals in a 90-81 win. Additionally, he posted a game-high of 21 points in a 104-85 win against the Indiana Pacers, and 14 points, one rebound, two assists, one steal, and one block in a win against the New Orleans Pelicans. 

Youngblood earned an Exhibit 10 contract with the Thunder this summer. He will likely play in the G League for the OKC Blue, but with his efficient scoring and catch-and-shoot ability he could earn a two-way contract.

The Thunder have one open two-way contract remaining after already signing Branden Carlson and Brooks Barnhizer to two-way deals. The team is currently using its training camp to evaluate players like Youngblood to fill the final spot.