Bruce Thornton could be Rockets’ biggest draft surprise after latest coach comments

After putting together an outstanding career at Ohio State, Bruce Thornton is now set to begin the next chapter of his basketball journey with the Houston Rockets. His remarkable senior campaign significantly boosted his NBA draft stock. Ultimately, Houston acquired his draft rights from the New York Knicks.

The Rockets have already expressed tremendous confidence in their newest guard. Houston Summer League head coach Will Dunn recently shared his initial thoughts on Thornton, offering high praise for the rookie's physical style of play.

“He’s a tank. You can see it right away. He’s like a little bowling ball out there. He’s physical, he’s strong, he’s got a really tight handle. So when you guard him, you’ll feel it, for sure,” Dunn said.

Thornton enters the NBA after one of the most accomplished careers in Ohio State basketball history. He started for the Buckeyes in each of his four collegiate seasons. His leadership was equally impressive, as he became the first player in program history to serve as a four-time team captain.

Before departing Ohio State, Thornton cemented his place in the program's record books by becoming the Buckeyes' all-time leading scorer with 2,164 career points. During his final collegiate season, he averaged 19.9 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game.

Thornton is now in Las Vegas, where he is expected to headline the Houston Rockets' roster during the 2026 NBA Summer League. The tournament will give the rookie his first opportunity to showcase his talent on the NBA stage while proving he can live up to the high expectations the Rockets organization already has for him.

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