Former Northwestern captain Brooks Barnhizer recorded his first NBA Summer League double-double, finishing with 15 points and 10 rebounds despite the Oklahoma City Thunder's 103-69 loss to the Utah Jazz.
Former Northwestern captain Brooks Barnhizer continued his impressive NBA Summer League campaign Tuesday night, recording his first double-double of the summer despite the Oklahoma City Thunder falling 103-69 to the Utah Jazz.
Barnhizer finished with 15 points, 10 rebounds, one assist and one steal, shooting 5-of-12 from the field while knocking down his lone 3-point attempt. Although the Thunder dropped to 0-3 in NBA Summer League play, the former Wildcat once again emerged as one of Oklahoma City's brightest performers.
The Thunder struggled offensively throughout the game, but Barnhizer wasted little time making an impact. He scored nine points during the opening minutes, providing Oklahoma City's early offensive spark before Utah gradually pulled away.
His latest performance builds on a strong Summer League after he previously led the Thunder in scoring during their opener. With each game, Barnhizer has continued building confidence while showing the all-around skill set that made him one of Northwestern's most respected leaders.
Just days after accepting a two-way qualifying offer from Oklahoma City, Barnhizer is taking advantage of every opportunity to prove he belongs at the NBA level. Summer League serves as an important evaluation period for young players, and his consistent production has strengthened his case as he competes for a larger role entering the 2026-27 season.
Throughout his career at Northwestern, Barnhizer earned a reputation for doing whatever was necessary to help his team win. Whether it was scoring, defending multiple positions, crashing the glass or making hustle plays, his versatility became one of his defining traits.
Those same qualities have begun to carry over to the NBA level.
Apr 12, 2026; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Brooks Barnhizer (23) and Phoenix Suns forward CJ Huntley (22) fight for a loose ball during the first quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn ImagesWhile his rebounding and defensive intensity have remained strengths, Barnhizer has also shown noticeable improvement offensively. His willingness to attack the basket, improved shooting and ability to score without forcing opportunities have been encouraging signs as he continues adjusting to the NBA game.
Oklahoma City remains one of the NBA's deepest young teams, meaning consistent minutes won't come easily. However, performances like Tuesday night's continue to strengthen Barnhizer's case as he competes for a larger role throughout the season.
For Northwestern fans, Barnhizer's Summer League success has been another reminder of the program's growing presence at the professional level.
As he continues producing against NBA-caliber competition, the former Wildcats captain is steadily building his reputation while moving one step closer to becoming a consistent contributor in Oklahoma City.
With Summer League still underway, Barnhizer will have additional opportunities to continue proving his game translates to the next level and strengthen his case for a larger role with the Thunder during the 2026-27 season.
