Amis says working out for Thunder was ‘really cool’
Former University of Hawaii forward Bill Amis worked out for scouts of his hometown Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday, and came away from the hour-and-a-half session in high spirits.
After being put through some shooting drills and 1-on-1 and 2-on-2 action with other prospects, the All-Western Athletic Conference second teamer still believes he will play professionally in Europe — likely in Germany, France or Belgium, he said.
“I thought I played pretty well, but not really expecting too much to come out of that, as far as the NBA is concerned,” Amis said. “But it’s a good thing to go on the resume, and I’m just excited to get the opportunity to play for them.”
The 6-foot-9 Amis said he was mostly matched up against Jordan Williams (6-10) of Maryland. Chris Wright of Georgetown and Talor Battle of Penn State were also there.
Even if he doesn’t expect to be suited up alongside Kevin Durant or Russell Westbrook anytime soon, Amis said the opportunity was special. He’s embraced the Thunder in the few years they’ve been in Oklahoma City and went to Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals last month.
Don't miss out on what's happening!
Stay in touch with top news, as it happens, conveniently in your email inbox. It's FREE!
“It was really cool to be able to work out for them,” Amis said. “They’re a big deal around here.”
Amis said his agent, Ben Pensack, made the workout happen, and might have another workout lined up for him with a team if a spot opens up next week.
“It wasn’t really looking good with the lockout (talk) and everything (for a while),” Amis said. “Thanks to the Thunder, it was good of them to bring me in for a workout.”
Amis came back from foot injuries to average 15.2 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.2 blocks as a senior. He was key in the Rainbow Warriors’ first postseason appearance in seven seasons.