“Unfortunately, Cason Wallace will be sidelined again due to his health condition.”
Cason Wallace Sidelined Again Due to Ongoing Health Issues
June 17, 2025 — By Sports Desk
In a disappointing turn of events for both fans and the team, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Cason Wallace will once again be sidelined due to lingering health concerns, the team announced Tuesday morning. The setback marks another chapter in what has become a challenging period for the promising young guard, who has shown significant potential when healthy.
Wallace, 22, has been dealing with a recurring health issue that has kept him off the court intermittently over the past several weeks. While the organization has not disclosed the specific nature of the condition, sources close to the team suggest it involves a non-COVID-related respiratory issue that has affected his stamina and ability to train at full intensity.
“This is a difficult situation for Cason and for all of us,” said Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault during a press conference. “He’s a fighter, and he’s been doing everything he can to get back out there. But after further evaluation with our medical staff, we all agreed that the best course of action is to prioritize his long-term health.”
Wallace has shown flashes of brilliance during his time with the Thunder, earning praise for his perimeter defense, court vision, and growing offensive skillset. Drafted 10th overall in the 2023 NBA Draft out of the University of Kentucky, Wallace was expected to take on a more significant role in the Thunder’s rotation this season.
He had been averaging 9.4 points, 3.1 assists, and 1.5 steals per game in limited minutes before his health concerns began affecting his performance. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by a Thunder team that has relied on his defensive versatility and ability to guard multiple positions.
Teammates expressed concern and support for Wallace following the announcement. “Cason is like a little brother to us,” said Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. “We want him to take all the time he needs to get right. Basketball will be here when he’s ready.”
Wallace’s condition will be monitored closely over the coming weeks. According to team officials, there is no clear timeline for his return, but the priority is to ensure he makes a full recovery before resuming basketball activities.
Fans took to social media to share their support, with hashtags like #GetWellCason and #ThunderStrong trending regionally. Many expressed hopes for a full recovery and emphasized the importance of health over on-court success.
The Thunder have called up rookie guard Tre Mann to help fill the void left by Wallace’s absence, but the team is expected to lean more heavily on their existing guard rotation in the meantime.
While Wallace’s health issues have thrown a wrench into the Thunder’s lineup plans, the organization remains optimistic about his future. “Cason has a bright career ahead of him,” said Thunder GM Sam Presti. “Right now, our focus is supporting him in every way we can so he comes back stronger — both mentally and physically.”
As the team prepares for a challenging stretch of games in the Western Conference, all eyes will remain on Wallace’s recovery. For now, the Thunder faithful will have to wait patiently, hoping that their rising star returns stronger and healthier in the near future.