After showcasing a successful return to form in the G-League, Victor Oladipo eyes an NBA comeback. Could Miami Heat President Pat Riley take a low-risk gamble on the former defensive standout?
MIAMI, Fla. – Following two full days of NBA free agency, the Miami Heat remain in the mix for several players, including Anfernee Simons, Khris Middleton, and Bradley Beal. After signing Tim Hardaway Jr. to a one-year, $6.5 million contract, outside shooting remains a top priority. However, a potential reunion with all-time leading scorer LeBron James is another option Team President Pat Riley and the front office are weighing.
In more recent news, a former Heat guard is eyeing a career comeback. Victor Oladipo last played on an NBA court on April 22, 2023. He was a member of the Heat, playing against the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round of the playoffs. In a drive to the basket, Oladipo landed awkwardly – on what later became known as a torn left knee patellar tendon. He was able to walk off the court without a stretcher, but hadn’t been seen again.
Until this past preseason, Oladipo played in front of NBA fans again, with the Guangzhou Loong-Lions. In three games, he averaged 19.3 points on 46.7 percent shooting. The former two-time All-Star showed glimpses of still being able to play at an elite level.
In the following months, the 34-year-old entered the G-League pool – picked up by the Wisconsin Herd – Milwaukee Bucks’ affiliate. Oladipo averaged 13.5 points on 38.3 percent shooting, 32.5 percent from behind the arc, 4.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.9 steals in 15 games, including eight starts.
Recently on X, Wednesday afternoon, the former All-Defensive guard took to social media to make it known that he still has plenty left in the tank.
“I’m a free agent. I don’t have an agent right now just me and my family,” Oladipo said. “I know I have a lot left, and I genuinely love this game. I’d rather show you I’m ready than spend my time trying to explain why or flood you with analytics to prove it. If you’re about winning, value mentorship, and think there could be a fit, you can reach me directly. I’m open to every opportunity right now—I just want to make sure I weigh each one carefully. I can’t wait to share my story.”
During last year’s Summer League, the All-NBA guard held a private workout in front of several NBA executives, including Heat personnel in attendance. Oladipo is a proven veteran who can still impact winning – even in a limited role. He could easily be obtained on a minimum-scale contract.
Oladipo would bring the Heat another ball-handler, facilitator, defender, and shooter – with a 34.7 three-point career shooting percentage in the league. Although there are still more reliable options available, the idea of a reunion shouldn’t be immediately shut down, but rather approached with caution. Oladipo’s undergone several surgeries, but remains explosive enough to spark a level of interest around the league.
Another stint in the G-League – for any franchise – could come first before Oladipo officially takes up a standard roster spot. Regardless, a comeback story could be brewing.
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Anthony Aguirre is the Miami Heat beat writer for Roundtable Sports. Contact info: [email protected] | 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
