Derek Fisher Re-Signs With Thunder for Final Season

The OKC Thunder are bringing back veteran guard Derek Fisher for his 18th and perhaps final season in the NBA. Per Fisher’s website and the Oklahoman: “I am excited to announce that today I signed on to play my 18th season, my final season, with the Oklahoma City Thunder. I have thought about this decision for some time and I cannot think of a better way to end my playing career than playing for one of the best franchises in the league today, led by one of the smartest and brightest GMs, a great coaching staff, and teammates that have become like family. As I wrap up my on court career, I want to thank everyone that has been a part of my journey. My family and friends, the fans, every teammate, each opponent, even the people that had doubt in me; you made me a better player, a determined champion, a stronger man, and helped me to live out my childhood dream. I have been blessed to do what I love so much, and as I step into this final season I will cherish every game, every cheer, every boo, every whistle, every win. I have loved this time in my life and I am humbled to have shared it with so many of you. God bless you all! […] Fisher, who traveled to Oklahoma City from Los Angeles on Wednesday afternoon to sign the contract, will join the Thunder on the veteran’s minimum, or roughly $1.4 million. But unlike his first two stints in town, Fisher this time will have a chance to make his mark from the start of the season. In each of the previous two seasons Fisher was signed midway through the year. Fisher appeared in 20 games as a member of the Thunder during the 2011-12 season and took the court for 24 games last year. Though he’ll turn 39 on August 9, Fisher used a strong playoff performance last season to prove he still has plenty left to offer. He averaged 8.7 points on 45.7 percent shooting in 11 playoff games and was huge in helping the Thunder advance past Houston following the season-ending knee injury to starting point guard Russell Westbrook.”