The Oklahoma City Thunder franchise, encompassing its storied past as the Seattle SuperSonics, boasts a rich tapestry of players who have graced the court, each leaving their unique imprint through the jersey numbers they wore. This ongoing series meticulously explores the complete history of these iconic numbers, paying homage to every athlete who has donned them since the franchise’s inception in the 1967-68 season.

While the legacy of the Seattle SuperSonics jerseys might one day be distinguished from the current Oklahoma City Thunder identity should a new team emerge in Seattle, their historical significance remains an undeniable part of the franchise’s present narrative. These numbers connect eras and celebrate the foundational players who shaped the team’s early identity.

Continuing our deep dive into the historical significance of individual jersey numbers, this installment focuses on the revered No. 35. A total of eleven players have proudly sported this particular jersey throughout the franchise’s extensive history, each contributing to its unfolding story on the hardwood.

Among these distinguished athletes, the third player to wear the No. 35 during the Seattle SuperSonics era was the accomplished forward, Paul Silas. Silas embarked on his professional basketball journey after a notable collegiate career at Creighton, earning the 12th overall selection in the 1964 NBA Draft by the St. Louis Hawks, a franchise now known as the Atlanta Hawks.

During his tenure with the SuperSonics from 1977 to 1980, Paul Silas exclusively wore jersey No. 35, becoming synonymous with the number during that period. His consistent presence and veteran leadership were valuable assets to the team, embodying the grit and determination that defined the era.

Across his seasons in Seattle, Silas demonstrated a robust all-around game, contributing significantly with an average of 5.1 points, an impressive 6.8 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game. These statistics underscore his impact, particularly his rebounding prowess, which was a cornerstone of his contribution to the SuperSonics’ performance.

The inclusion of players like Paul Silas in this historical review highlights the continuous thread connecting the Seattle SuperSonics and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Their contributions, even from decades past, remain an integral part of the franchise’s identity, celebrated through the enduring legacy of the jersey numbers they wore, showcasing a continuum of basketball excellence.