41.5% From Deep: Why the Sixers Waived a Future Champion

Alright, buckle up, Emerald City, because we gotta talk about something wild from the NBA draft world. You ever just scratch your head at how some teams let absolute gems slip through their fingers? Well, get ready, because the Philadelphia 76ers pulled a move back in the 2020 draft that still makes you wonder, especially now that player just won a title. Seriously, what were they thinking, man?

From Arkansas Sharpshooter to Sixers Scapegoat

Back in 2020, after the Sixers made a splash in the first round by grabbing Tyrese Maxey, they kept their night going. They went for Isaiah Joe, the sharpshooting guard out of Arkansas, with the No. 49 pick. A late-round flyer, you know how it goes. But sometimes those late picks turn into something special. For the Sixers, though, it didn't quite pan out, at least not in Philly. Joe stuck around for two seasons, averaging just 3.7 points and 1.0 rebounds, and he shot 34.9% from deep. Not exactly lighting the world on fire, right? So, in 2022, they decided to cut bait, waiving him and sending him on his way. Talk about a tough break for a young player, especially after being drafted.

OKC's Gain Was Philly's Pain, Big Time

Here's where the story gets good

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, or if you're a Sixers fan, probably infuriating. Joe didn't just fade away into obscurity. Nope. He caught on with the Oklahoma City Thunder. And what happened then? He spent four seasons there, completely turning his game around! This dude wasn't just finding a new home, he was *emerging*. Over those four years in OKC, Isaiah Joe cranked his three-point percentage way up, shooting an incredible 41.5% from deep. Forty-one-point-five percent! That's elite. And if that wasn't enough, he was part of a Thunder team that went all the way and won a title in 2025. Imagine watching a player you drafted and waived go on to become a champion and a top-tier shooter for another franchise. Ouch.

What's Next for the Undervalued Sharpshooter?

So, what's Joe up to now after his championship run with the Thunder? Well, he's on the move again in this current offseason. He's been traded to the Detroit Pistons, where he'll link up with Cade Cunningham and the crew in the Motor City. You know he's going into that situation with a chip on his shoulder, ready to prove he's still a difference-maker. He's shown he can hit big shots and contribute to a winning team. It's going to be wild to see what kind of impact he has there. The man knows how to get it done, even when he gets counted out.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.