Full Breakdown
Victor Oladipo Seeks NBA Return with Open Letter
9/2/2026, 12:06:29 PM
Open Letter Calls for a Comeback
On September 1, 2026, former Indiana University All-American Victor Oladipo published an open letter in *The Players Tribune* addressed to NBA general managers. In the piece he declares that his body is “finally right” and asks for an opportunity to prove he can still contribute to an NBA locker room.
Injuries and Prior Career
Oladipo, 34, entered the league as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2013 NBA draft by the Orlando Magic. He later played for the Indiana Pacers, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Miami Heat, earning two All-Star selections, All-NBA honors, All-Defensive recognition, and the 2017 Most Improved Player award. A ruptured quad tendon in his right knee in 2019 ended a season after 36 games, and a torn left-knee patellar tendon in 2023 forced him out of the 2023-24 season. He has not appeared in an NBA game since that injury.
Career Numbers
- Games played: 504
- Career averages: 16.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.6 steals in 32.2 minutes per game
- 2022-23 season (Miami Heat): 10.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.4 steals in 42 appearances
- Career earnings: more than $124 million
Official Statements & Responses
The Miami Heat, who have a roster spot available for a minimum-contract player, have not sent representatives to Oladipo’s Las Vegas pro day.
The Sacramento Kings, which have two minimum-contract slots open, have expressed “mutual interest” in Oladipo, according to his remarks after the workout.
On-the-Ground Reports
A photo posted on a Friday showed Oladipo working out at the Heat’s training facility, fueling speculation that the team might consider adding him as a 15th man. The Heat’s recent offseason moves—including signings of veteran players and a trade for Giannis Antetokounmpo—have left one minimum-contract slot open, but the team’s lack of attendance at his open tryout suggests limited immediate interest.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Heat’s front office has not publicly commented on Oladipo’s workout, the Kings have hinted at interest, creating uncertainty about which franchise, if any, will extend a contract. No official statements from either team confirm a forthcoming signing, and Oladipo’s status remains speculative pending the start of training camps.
Verbatim Quotes
“To say to any GM who’s willing to listen: I believe my body is finally right,” — American Victor Oladipo
What’s Next
NBA training camps for the 2026-27 season are scheduled to open in late September. Oladipo’s open letter and recent workouts position him to be evaluated during those camps, but a contract will depend on a team’s willingness to allocate a minimum-contract slot to a veteran returning from significant knee injuries.
