Future NBA stars A-OK with OKC
Big 12: Thanks in part to Durant, city offers plenty of appeal to prospects

Likewise, as a potential destination for the NBA’s next wave, Oklahoma City offers plenty of appeal for the Big 12’s top draft prospects, too.

Durant is a lightning rod for that appeal, as a key component in the Thunder’s rapid ascent that seems headed for extended success. And the former Texas star insists he feels right at home, recently announcing that he’s interested in signing a long-term contract with the club this summer.

While the jury may be out on Oklahoma City’s desirability among prominent free agents, the kids are all right placing OKC along with the larger markets of Los Angeles, New York, Chicago and others.

"Size doesn’t matter to me,” said Oklahoma State’s James Anderson, who was raised in tiny Junction City, Ark., before making his college home in Stillwater.

"They have a good, young, exciting team in Oklahoma City. And they have great fans. It’d be great to play there.”

Durant, an NBA franchise player at age 21, may deserve an honorary role with the Chamber of Commerce.

Texas forward Damion James tracks Durant, his former Longhorns teammate, but also the Thunder as a whole. And yes, he could envision giving the Thunder another set of Horns to Hook ’Em.

"Kevin has told me they sell out every game and I love that type of atmosphere,” James said. "I follow Kevin and the Thunder every day. If the season was over today, I’d vote Kevin MVP. He’s been great. The players have been great. Their coach has done a great job.”

While Durant has made Oklahoma City home, for two projected first-round draft picks from the Big 12, it is home.

Kansas freshman Xavier Henry played at Putnam City, and Baylor junior Ekpe Udoh came out of Edmond Santa Fe.

Henry lit up at the thought of playing in his old back yard.

"I love Oklahoma City,” Henry said. "That’s where home is to me. I’d love to live back home.

"I don’t need to play in New York or Chicago, but if they call (big smile)... I’m a big home guy.”

Udoh has made a habit of getting away from home. After starting his college career at Michigan, Udoh transferred to Baylor, passing on a chance to come home to one of the state schools.

But the Thunder, Udoh said, that would be different.

"Oklahoma City Thunder – it’s crazy,” Udoh said. "It’s just great to see Oklahoma City finally get a team.

"I wouldn’t mind being anywhere. That’s always been my mindset. I don’t care where it is, I’m there. Oklahoma City, I’d be back home. It’d be a great opportunity.”

It’s the same for those who don’t call Oklahoma City home.

Maybe that comes from playing in places like Stillwater and Lawrence, Kan., and Ames, Iowa.

Yes, the big cities have a lot to offer.

But so can Oklahoma City.

"I don’t mind,” said Iowa State forward Marquis Gilstrap. "I go to Iowa State. I think in the smaller markets, the fans are more into you.”

Said Brackins: "The bigger markets, if you’re not good, they don’t like you as much. The smaller market teams, I think I heard Durant in an interview say they sell out almost every game, whether they’re winning or not.

"The smaller market, I feel like there’s a lot of love in there.”

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