Former Northwestern captain Brooks Barnhizer capped off an impressive NBA Summer League with another double-double, finishing with 21 points, 12 rebounds and five assists while continuing to strengthen his case for a role in the Thunder's rotation.
Former Northwestern captain Brooks Barnhizer finished NBA Summer League on a high note, delivering another standout performance despite the Oklahoma City Thunder falling 97-87 to the Dallas Mavericks, finishing the tournament 0-4.
Barnhizer recorded 21 points, 12 rebounds and five assists, notching his third double-double of Summer League while shooting an efficient 8-for-16 from the field. His 16 field-goal attempts led the Thunder, another sign of the confidence both he and the coaching staff have developed throughout Summer League.
The performance capped off an impressive Summer League for the former Wildcat.
After earning a starting role early in the tournament, Barnhizer steadily became one of Oklahoma City's most reliable contributors. His ability to impact nearly every area of the game helped him stand out even as the Thunder struggled to find wins.
Barnhizer finished Summer League averaging 13.0 points and 9.5 rebounds per game while consistently contributing as a scorer, rebounder, playmaker and defender. His three double-doubles highlighted the relentless motor and versatility that made him one of Northwestern's most accomplished players.
Perhaps most encouraging was his growing offensive confidence.
Throughout the tournament, Barnhizer became increasingly aggressive with the basketball. Against Dallas, he led Oklahoma City in shot attempts, showing he was comfortable taking on a larger offensive role while continuing to create opportunities for teammates.
That growing confidence complements the qualities NBA scouts have long admired.
While Barnhizer has always been known for his toughness, rebounding and defensive versatility, Summer League allowed him to showcase his expanding offensive game.
His willingness to attack the basket, facilitate the offense and compete for every possession helped establish him as one of Oklahoma City's brightest performers throughout the event.
Northwestern fans have seen those traits before.
During his career in Evanston, Barnhizer built his reputation by doing whatever the Wildcats needed to win. Whether scoring, rebounding, defending or making hustle plays, he consistently found ways to impact games beyond the box score.
March 22, 2024, Brooklyn, NY, USA; Northwestern Wildcats guard Brooks Barnhizer (13) dives into the scorer's table against the Florida Atlantic Owls in the first round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament at the Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn ImagesThose same qualities have translated well to the professional level.
While Summer League wins and losses aren't the primary focus, Barnhizer accomplished exactly what he needed to. He proved he can compete against NBA-level talent while continuing to earn the trust of one of the league's deepest organizations.
With training camp approaching, Barnhizer has positioned himself well to compete for opportunities on Oklahoma City's roster. If he continues building on the momentum he created in Las Vegas, he could find himself pushing for meaningful rotation minutes during the 2026-27 season.
For Northwestern, Barnhizer's Summer League performance is another reminder of the program's growing presence in professional basketball.
As more former Wildcats continue making their mark in professional basketball, Barnhizer has firmly established himself as one of Northwestern's brightest young NBA prospects.
