Height
6'8"
Weight
215 lbs
Age
23
College
Iowa
Experience
0 yrs
Wingspan
6'8.0"
Reach
8'8.0"
Hand Size
8.5" × 9"
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsD+
| Year | Team | GP | PPG | RPG | APG | SPG | BPG | FG% | 3PT% | FT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 1 | 3.0 | 1.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 33.3% | 50.0% | 0.0% |
| 2025-26 | | 1 | 3.0 | 1.0 | 0.0 |
Recent Games
| Date | OPP | Result | MIN | PTS | REB | AST | STL | BLK | FG | 3PT | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sat, 4/11 | @ DEN | L 107-127 | 28 | 8 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3-8 | 1-4 | -11 |
Performance Analysis
Payton Sandfort earns a D+ Performance grade, indicating below-average production relative to other NBA small forwards this season. Through 1 games, Payton is contributing 3.0 points, 1.0 rebounds, and 0.0 assists per game in his role. Payton's strongest area is FG% at 33.3, which compares favorably to the small forward median of 46.0. The biggest area for growth is PPG at 3.0 (small forward median: 15.0). Among 119 NBA small forwards graded this season, Payton ranks 81st. At 23, Payton is still developing. The production should improve as he gains experience and a larger role with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Current Sentiment
Sandfort entered the NBA with feel-good brother surprise stories dominating coverage. However, C-grade performance and historically poor -7.5 PER reveal genuine on-court struggles. Media sentiment reflects cautious optimism, but actual production suggests deep developmental concerns. Heartwarming narratives mask concerning statistical reality for the young prospect. NBA debut fanfare cannot overcome disappointing early performance indicators.
Transaction History
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