The 3-And-D Guard: Evolution of OKC's Two-Way Wingers

What is a 3-and-D Guard in OKC’s System?

OKC has deployed a 3-and-D player in its roster amongst its stars over the years dating back to their move to Oklahoma City. Since then, it has been the template for the Thunder, and it cannot be denied that OKC has made it look like a new brand of basketball, showing that it is clearly a fit in their system that made them a remarkable team to watch.

While the 3-and-D player may not be the team’s star or primary scorer, their value lies in their specific skill set. These players may not even be starting members of the team; rather, they can be role players who contribute significantly off the bench. Their main responsibilities often include providing scoring when the starters are resting and defending key players on the opposing team.

Physically, 3-and-D players tend to have above-average height, a long wingspan, and the athleticism necessary to excel in their roles. This combination of traits allows them to guard multiple positions and shoot over defenders with ease. Additionally, these players usually possess good speed, quickness, agility, and vertical leaping ability. They are also typically among the best-conditioned athletes on their team, with high stamina and the energy to consistently perform both offensively and defensively throughout the game.

Here are some of the remarkable 3-and-D players for OKC over the years.

Thabo Sefolosha (2009-2014)

Thabo Sefolosha played for the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2009 to 2014, establishing himself as a versatile and defensive-minded player. Acquired by OKC as part of the team’s rebuilding phase, Sefolosha quickly became known for his elite perimeter defense, often tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best wing players. While his offensive contributions were limited, his defensive prowess and ability to contribute as a role player helped the Thunder during their early years, especially as the team began to develop a core featuring Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden.

During his time in OKC, Sefolosha's most significant impact was on the defensive end, where he provided a reliable presence on the wing and contributed to the team’s defensive schemes. He also showed glimpses of offensive potential, particularly as a spot-up shooter and occasional slasher. Though he was never a central figure in the team’s offense, his role as a lockdown defender was a valuable asset, particularly in the team's playoff runs.

Andre Roberson (2013-2020)

Andre Roberson played for the Oklahoma City Thunder from 2013 to 2020, becoming one of the most respected perimeter defenders in the NBA during his tenure. Known for his elite defensive abilities, Roberson was primarily tasked with guarding the opposing team’s best wing players. His lockdown defense was a key asset for the Thunder, especially during the team's playoff appearances alongside stars like Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and Paul George. Although Roberson was not a significant offensive contributor—struggling with shooting and scoring—his defense earned him a reputation as one of the league’s top stoppers.

Roberson's impact on defense was most evident during the 2016-2017 season, when he was integral to the Thunder's defensive success. He was often tasked with defending elite scorers, and his ability to disrupt passing lanes and defend without fouling made him a vital role player. However, his offensive limitations were a persistent issue, particularly his struggles with shooting, especially from beyond the arc. Despite this, Roberson's defense remained his defining strength.

In 2018, Roberson suffered a serious knee injury that kept him out for over a year, significantly impacting both his career and the Thunder’s defense during his absence. He returned to the court in 2019 but struggled to regain his previous form. After a few more seasons with the Thunder, Roberson became a free agent in 2020, marking the end of his tenure in Oklahoma City. While his offensive game never fully developed, Roberson's legacy with the Thunder is defined by his elite defense, and he is remembered as one of the franchise's top defensive players during their playoff years.

Luguentz Dort (2019-Present)

Luguentz Dort has been a key player for the Oklahoma City Thunder since joining the team in 2019. Known for his rugged defense and physicality, Dort quickly became one of the NBA’s premier perimeter defenders. His breakout moment came during the 2020 playoffs, when he famously limited James Harden’s effectiveness in a first-round series against the Houston Rockets, solidifying his reputation as a defensive force. Dort's ability to guard multiple positions, coupled with his strength and intensity, made him a crucial part of the Thunder’s defensive schemes.

Offensively, Dort has shown steady improvement over the years. Initially known for his struggles with shooting, he worked on his outside shot and became a more reliable scorer, particularly from the three-point line. As the Thunder entered their rebuilding phase, Dort emerged as one of the team’s primary scoring options, contributing as a slasher and a perimeter shooter. His offensive game, combined with his defensive prowess, made him a valuable two-way player for the team.

Dort signed a significant contract extension with the Thunder in 2021, solidifying his place as a key part of their young core moving forward. Despite the team's ongoing rebuild, Dort’s growth as a defender and scorer has made him one of the bright spots in OKC’s future. His continued development as both a lockdown defender and an offensive contributor positions him as a cornerstone for the Thunder's long-term plans.

New Era of 3-and-D for OKC

Since then, OKC has changed its approach in the game, especially in the current 2024-25 NBA season, where they have even traded Josh Giddey – who could not fill the 3-and-D role well with his poor shooting. However, it has turned out for the best so far for the Thunder with the way they are playing right now, with Alex Caruso being the replacement for Giddey and sophomore Cason Wallace bulking up and training defensive schemes with Lu Dort.

For instance, this is how the stack of defenders look for OKC at this point:

While the stats don’t actually tell the whole story, it is worth noting that each of these players provide a massive impact on the defensive end, despite not scoring a lot of field goals from time to time. One can say that the Thunder is really loaded with the way they have structured their roster.

Let’s not forget the fact that OKC flexes the best defensive team in the league. They are ranked first overall in ball deflections and forced turnovers – thanks to that trio of 3-and-D players. It is worth betting on the Thunder night in and night out, and if you plan to place some interesting bets on OKC, make sure to check out your betting odds and potential winnings with GambleSpot’s parlay and odds calculator.

On top of all that, OKC has two of the best two-way performers in the league in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams – who are both expected to be in the 2025 All-Star Game as well. At this point, one can say that OKC is indeed blessed with a defensive mindset and equipped with the best elite defenders the league has seen.

Will it Help OKC Win a League Title This Time?

The defensive mindset can absolutely play a pivotal role in helping the Oklahoma City Thunder win a title, but it’s just one piece of a larger puzzle. The foundation of any championship team is built on defense—whether it’s disrupting opposing offenses, forcing turnovers, or locking down star players in clutch moments.

In the end, it’s not just about stopping opponents, but also being able to score when it matters most. For Oklahoma City, a defensive-first mentality could very well be the foundation they build a championship contender upon.

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