Who Is JT Thor? Major Contributor to South Sudan’s Olympic Breakthrough, Meet Cavaliers’ Latest Signing

One of the most talked about teams at the Olympics was South Sudan. But this was their first Olympic appearance, so why were they a threat, especially after being in Group C? Well, during the exhibition games, the Sudanese almost pulled off what could have been the biggest upset in the history of the game. However, Team USA managed to defeat them with a narrow victory. Of all, JT Thor, a familiar face, made a big impression playing against LeBron James and company. But who is this 21-year-old striker? Let’s refresh your memory!

Thor is an American/South Sudanese basketball player born in Omaha, Nebraska. Thor’s family moved to Alaska when he was 5 years old, after which he changed schools 3 times and finished his senior year averaging just under 15 points and 6.6 rebounds. The 2.08 m forward went on to play for the Auburn Tigers in his college days. As a freshman, Thor averaged 9.4 points, 5 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game and the following year he entered the NBA draft.

His stats weren’t all that special, but his athleticism, at 6’2″, really stood out, among other things. He handled mismatches quite well for someone his size, guarding the perimeter with ease. Thor was the 37th overall pick in the Detroit Pistons in the 2021 NBA draft. However, he was traded to the Hornets a few months later. During his 3 seasons at CharlotteThor averaged 3.2 points and 2.3 rebounds. As a result, they declined his player option, making him an unrestricted free agent this year.

However, as JT Thor’s time in the NBA came to an end, his time with the South Sudanese basketball team shaped his journey. It’s safe to say that the 2024 Paris Olympics largely saved him from a potential basketball career overseas. In the exhibition game against Team USA, he scored 14 points, grabbed 2 rebounds, and made 2 assists, making some big plays from the line. Thor really shined during his country’s run in Paris, and luckily, a certain general manager was watching the same game!

JT Thor will return to the NBA after signing a two-way contract with the The Cleveland Cavaliersas reported by Shams Charania. This will not only be an opportunity for him to make a statement, but it will also benefit the franchise in several ways.

The Cavaliers made a lot of noise last season. However, as a franchise, they have struggled to get back on their feet, although they recently managed to win a series. Led by Donovan MitchellWith Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, Cleveland is slowly emerging as a threat in the East. And to make things better, they now have a young player with a lot of potential.

JT Thor has a great chance to prove himself in the NBA

During his G-League years with the Swarms, Thor averaged 12 points and 5.6 rebounds, and he scored 34 points and 12 rebounds in his G-League debut! As he prepares to play for the Cavaliers and their G-League affiliate, the Cleveland Charge, the Sudanese star has a great opportunity to show off and finally establish himself as an NBA-level rim protector, eventually making the Cavs’ final roster. His numbers haven’t been amazing so far, but the Olympic tour was a glimpse of what he’s capable of.

“He seems to fit in on the defensive end. I like his size, his defensive versatility, for sure. He’s got a good IQ, too. He can see his feel for the game.” Hornets head coach James Borrego said as much in 2021.

JT Thor can be a great replacement for Mobley and Allen off the bench. His rim protection and pick-n-roll reads can also allow him to become a pivot to work with alongside Mitchell. Given how far the Cavs have come in the East, Thor will undoubtedly be exposed. On the other hand, he will be one of the Charge’s main players, which, again, will mean plenty of court time for Thor.

It will be interesting to see how he fares with the Cavs after getting all the attention last month. What do you think about JT Thor playing for the Cavs? Do you think he could become an asset to the team? Let us know in the comments.

Looking for a fresh basketball update? Then be sure to check out this recent interview with rising Georgia Lady Bulldogs star Asia Avinger.