As the NBA preseason approaches, veteran guard Victor Oladipo, who has been on a relentless path towards a comeback, has taken a unique step to reach out to league decision-makers. In a heartfelt open letter published in The Players' Tribune, Oladipo articulates his motivations and determination to return to the NBA after enduring a difficult stretch of injuries and setbacks.
A Career Rediscovered
Victor Oladipo's journey in the NBA has been turbulent since becoming a two-time All-Star. His promising career hit a severe roadblock in 2019 when he suffered a ruptured quadriceps tendon, an injury that plagued him for several seasons. Despite efforts to regain his form, the setbacks continued, culminating in a torn patellar tendon during the 2023 playoffs. This led to further doubts about his future in professional basketball.
Despite these challenges, Oladipo has remained resilient. He has engaged in various playing opportunities, spending time overseas and competing in the G League. Yet, as of now, he has not been able to secure a roster spot on an NBA team.
A Message to GMs
In his letter, Oladipo reaches out to NBA general managers directly, sharing not only his journey through injuries but also the core motivation behind his desire to return. His four-year-old daughter, Naomi, whom he affectionately nicknames Nomi, stands at the center of his inspiration. Oladipo expresses a genuine desire for Nomi to witness the tenacity and spirit of her father during this chapter of his life. He writes, "It's this version, right now, that I want Nomi to see," showcasing his commitment to being a role model for her.
He intimately shares his struggles, stating, "The version of her dad that got kicked all the way down the mountain, then spent years trying to climb back up, only to get kicked back down, again and again … but never once quit trying to climb." This candid reflection reveals Oladipo’s vulnerability and determination to overcome adversity, a sentiment likely resonating with many who have faced their own challenges.
Belief in His Potential
Oladipo asserts a strong belief in his physical condition, stating, "I believe my body is finally right. I believe I still have GREAT (and more importantly, WINNING) basketball in front of me." His confidence is a crucial aspect as he seeks a team willing to give him a chance. He acknowledges the skepticism surrounding his career, admitting that he is likely "getting counted out by a lot of people" but remains undeterred.
Recent Workouts and Interest from Teams
This summer, Oladipo held an open workout for NBA teams in Las Vegas, demonstrating his readiness and skill to potential suitors. He has teased some interest from teams, particularly mentioning the Sacramento Kings, especially following the retirement of veteran guard Russell Westbrook. His statement that "the feeling is mutual" suggests that there could be a budding opportunity for him to return to the league.
A Countdown to Opportunity
With the NBA preseason rapidly approaching, the timing couldn’t be more critical for Oladipo. The 2026-27 season is set to begin next month, providing a limited window for him to secure a contract. For Oladipo, the next few weeks will be pivotal in determining his future in the league.
The journey of Victor Oladipo is not just about basketball; it is a narrative of perseverance, faith, and fatherhood. His determination to showcase his abilities in front of his daughter encapsulates the essence of not only who he is as an athlete but also who he is as a father. As GMs contemplate their roster compositions ahead of the new season, Oladipo's heartfelt plea combined with his demonstrated skills might just be the compelling narrative they need to take a chance on this veteran guard.
