Thunder GM Sam Presti Reportedly Tried Hiring ESPN’s Brian Windhorst For Intel Role

Approximately a decade ago, Oklahoma City Thunder general manager Sam Presti considered hiring ESPN's Brian Windhorst as an "information guy" to gain a competitive edge through insider knowledge, as information is highly valued by Presti. Though Windhorst ultimately declined and remained with ESPN, this consideration reflects the trend of NBA teams recruiting media personalities into front-office roles to leverage their extensive networks. The Thunder have previously hired former media members like Royce Young and Sebastian Pruiti, and other teams such as the Memphis Grizzlies and LA Clippers have made similar moves with John Hollinger and Lee Jenkins respectively. Windhorst is known for his deep connections within the NBA, which made him a uniquely attractive candidate despite the potential conflict with his media sources. Sam Presti's secretive management style emphasizes information control, with minimal public exposure, highlighting why he values such an "information guy." Windhorst continues to cover the NBA, including the Thunder's run in the 2025 NBA Finals, maintaining his prominent role in sports journalism rather than transitioning to a team front office.