
USA Today via Reuters
Apr 23, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Isaiah Thomas (4) watches the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second quarter during game two of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports

USA Today via Reuters
Apr 23, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Isaiah Thomas (4) watches the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second quarter during game two of the first round for the 2024 NBA playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports
Resilience knows no bounds. That’s the story of Isaiah Thomas. The former Celtics All-Star has been hopeful to make a return to the league since 2021. This comes amidst a painful time for Thomas. Only last month, his elder sister LaQuisha, who Thomas saw as his “protector” passed away. The sorrow was unlike he has ever felt. But that has also fueled Isaiah Thomas to continue chasing after his dream.
He made appearances in the G-League as recently as last season, earning a short stint with the Phoenix Suns in the process. He didn’t get a spot on the roster. However, IT isn’t willing to let go just yet. The former MVP candidate is coming back to the G-League to make another push towards the NBA.
According to Shams Charania, the 35-year-old will once again play for Utah Jazz’s G-League affiliate, Salt Lake City. Last year, Isaiah Thomas made roars when playing for them, scoring effortlessly in the four games he played. The veteran guard scored 30+ in all games. Now, he is hoping to repeat the same heroics once again.
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Two-time All-Star Isaiah Thomas is pursuing another NBA return, signing into the G League and rejoining the Utah Jazz’s Salt Lake City affiliate, sources tell ESPN. Last season, Thomas averaged 33 points in four G League games en route to a call up to the Suns.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) January 27, 2025
At his peak, Thomas, despite his 5’9″ stature led a magical campaign as the prime attacker for the Boston Celtics. He averaged 28.9 points in his final season, showcasing a mastery of fundamentals banded with pace. It remains one the most electric campaigns by an ‘underdog’ in recent years.
However, since his last year with the Celtics, Isaiah Thomas has been unable to maintain his strong wavelength. He played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Nuggets, and Washington Wizards before his attempt to make a pace through the G-League. Now, the former All-Star guard is hoping to go once more.
However, the fans aren’t on his side.
What’s your perspective on:
Is Isaiah Thomas's NBA dream inspiring or should he finally hang up his sneakers at 35?
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NBA fans want Isaiah Thomas to stop
In terms of talent, Thomas has shown he is leagues above the G-League. In both years that he did represent G-League teams, Thomas went on a rampage, compiling efficient scoring nights on the trot. However, the seasoned guard has simply not been able to find a permanent NBA home. Hence, fans weren’t thrilled by Charania’s update.
Bro you’re 35 years old now let it go 😭😭 had some great years but it’s time lol
— alex t new (@alextnew1) January 27, 2025
“Bro you’re 35 years old now let it go. Had some great years but it’s time lol” a fan mentioned under his tweet. Rationally, that would be the decision most veterans would have made at this point. However, Isaiah Thomas’ love for hooping supersedes such thoughts. As far as trying is concerned, there’s no quit in his mind.
But that’s not what bothered some fans. In terms of skill, Thomas stunned several NBA scouts by having such a long career in spite of him being one of the shortest players in league history. So there was a lot of confusion among fans. One even suggested “6 years trying, should have played in a top European Club all these years,”.
6 years trying, should have played in a top European Club all these years.
— Manuel Gómez 🇩🇴 (@MGomezt23) January 27, 2025
Several NBA veterans have made the jump. The likes of Dwight Howard, DeMarcus Cousins or even Kendrick Nunn have not only transports to international basketball but are thriving. With Thomas’ reputation and popularity, international would undoubtedly love his charisma on the basketball floor.
At the same time, many fans also rallied behind Thomas. They didn’t see his yearly attempts as a sign of desperation. Rather, they felt it is powerful to see his devotion to the game.
“He refuses to give up on his dreams, I gotta respect it” one fan mentioned. And well, breaking Thomas isn’t easy.He refuses to give up on his dreams, I gotta respect it 💯🏁
— BLACK ICE (@PattersonMister) January 27, 2025
From the onset, the sport of basketball wasn’t naturally inclined for a man like Thomas. He didn’t have the physical advantage or the balancing athleticism to carve out a long career. It was all built on belief, one that made him one of the most exciting players to watch during his time.
Given his age, however, some people do feel it’s time for him to maybe retire. Or at least if staying true to basketball, looking for a path away from the NBA. One fan wrote,
“Here we go again ! Somebody has to tell him to let it go!”. But is it really the time to?Here we go again ! Somebody has to tell him to let it go!
— FRK (@Francky2312) January 27, 2025
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Is Isaiah Thomas's NBA dream inspiring or should he finally hang up his sneakers at 35?