Africa-Press – Liberia. Sorbor’s journey embodies both the American dream and the resilience of a proud West African heritage.
In a night marked by emotion, pride, and promise, Thomas Sorbor, a towering 6’10” forward-center with deep Liberian roots, saw his dreams come true as he was selected 15th overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Walking across the stage at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Sorbor shook hands with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, a beaming smile stretched across his face as he pulled on the blue and orange Thunder cap.
For the young man from Trenton, New Jersey, and the entire Liberian diaspora, it was more than a draft pick it was history in motion.
A Moment Decades in the Making
Sorbor’s selection is a landmark for Liberian basketball. Born to immigrant parents who fled Liberia’s civil war in search of peace and opportunity, his journey embodies both the American dream and the resilience of a proud West African heritage.
His mother, Tenneh Sorbor, couldn’t hold back her tears during the ceremony. “He’s carrying the legacy of his father and a whole nation with him,” she said. Thomas’s father, Peter Sorbor, passed away from colon cancer when Thomas was only six.
Raised by his mother alongside two siblings, Sorbor found solace and discipline in the game his father cherished. By the time he arrived at Georgetown University, he was already making noise with his powerful frame, soft hands, and high basketball IQ.
Making Noise in the NCAA
During his freshman season at Georgetown, Sorbor emerged as one of the brightest young bigs in the NCAA. Averaging 14.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per game, he became a force in the paint anchoring the Hoyas on both ends of the floor and earning Big East All-Freshman honors.
NBA scouts took note of his mobility, rim protection, and leadership qualities. By the spring, he was firmly projected as a mid-first-round pick.
“Thomas is the kind of player who doesn’t just fill a role he elevates a team,” said ESPN’s Jalen Rose. “You can plug him into any system and know you’re getting heart, hustle, and smart basketball.”
Thunder Strikes Again
Fresh off their first NBA title in franchise history, the Oklahoma City Thunder used their 15th pick to solidify their future frontcourt. Head Coach Mark Daigneault praised Sorbor’s versatility and maturity, calling him “a piece we believe can grow with our core and contribute immediately.”
Oklahoma City, a team already stacked with young talent like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, will look to Sorbor to provide rebounding tenacity and rim protection off the bench or perhaps even crack the starting rotation by season’s end.
“I’m just ready to get to work,” Sorbor told reporters. “It’s a blessing to join a championship culture. I want to earn everything and help this team keep winning.”
A Hero in Liberia
Back home in Monrovia and across Liberian communities around the world, Sorbor’s draft moment was celebrated like a national holiday. The Liberia Basketball Association (LBA) issued a formal statement congratulating him, hailing his achievement as “a shining beacon for young Liberians everywhere.”
“Thomas Sorbor has shown that no dream is too far, no challenge too great,” the LBA stated. “His journey inspires a new generation of athletes in Liberia.”
The Road Ahead
Sorbor is expected to make his pro debut in NBA Summer League, where the Thunder coaching staff will begin shaping his transition to the league’s pace and physicality. While his shooting range and offensive polish are still developing, his defensive instincts and rebounding ability are NBA-ready.
More than a player, Sorbor arrives as a symbol. Of family. Of sacrifice. Of two nations—Liberia and the United States—coming together through sport.
As he begins his professional journey, the expectations are high, but so is the belief.
“I’ve been through a lot,” Sorbor said. “But every challenge built me for this. I’m ready for Oklahoma City. I’m ready for the NBA
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