The storied tapestry of NBA history is woven not just through championships and star players, but also through the iconic jersey numbers that etch a franchise’s identity. Within this rich tradition, the Oklahoma City Thunder, inheriting the deep roots of the Seattle SuperSonics, proudly chronicles the entire lineage of players who have graced its court. This ongoing series delves into these symbolic numerals, continuing our exploration with the distinctive jersey number 35, a significant digit in the franchise’s extensive past.
The franchise’s evolution, from its inception as the Seattle SuperSonics in 1967-68 to its current iteration as the Oklahoma City Thunder, presents a unique narrative of basketball legacy. While the debate over the SuperSonics’ historical continuity persists for some, the jerseys worn and the players who donned them undeniably form an integral part of the team’s recorded journey, regardless of geographical shifts.
Among the many distinguished numbers, jersey number 35 holds a particular place, having been worn by a total of eleven players throughout the franchise’s existence. Each player contributed their chapter to this numerical saga, adding to the collective memory of the team. Our focus turns now to one of those individuals who contributed during the Seattle era.
The fourth player to wear jersey number 35 was guard John Schweitz, whose professional career began with the Seattle SuperSonics. Schweitz’s journey to the NBA followed a successful collegiate career at the University of Richmond, where he honed his skills before declaring for the draft.
His transition to the professional ranks came in the 1982 NBA Draft. In an era when drafts featured numerous rounds beyond today’s format, Schweitz was selected as the 138th overall pick by the legendary Boston Celtics, a testament to his potential identified by one of the league’s most storied franchises.
Despite being drafted by the Celtics, Schweitz found his NBA home with the SuperSonics. During his tenure in Seattle, he exclusively wore jersey number 35, embodying the spirit of that particular era. His contributions to the team included an average of 3.0 points and 1.1 assists per game, providing depth and effort during his time on the court.
John Schweitz’s period with the SuperSonics, while perhaps not defining a lengthy career, nonetheless adds a unique thread to the sprawling tapestry of NBA history for the Thunder/Sonics franchise. His inclusion in the roster of players who wore jersey number 35 reinforces the series’ commitment to celebrating every individual who contributed to the team’s enduring basketball legacy, ensuring their place in the annals of history.
