Former Indiana Hoosiers forward Race Thompson, 26, is set to take his basketball talents to Europe after signing a one-year contract with Polish powerhouse Legia Warsaw for the 2025‑26 season.
-
Indiana Years
Thompson starred at Indiana University from 2017 to 2023, appearing in 130 games and starting 91 of his final 3 seasons. His career averages include 7.7 points and 5.5 rebounds, shooting over 51% from the field. His best year came in 2021‑22, when he averaged 11.1 PPG and 7.5 RPG under coach Mike Woodson. In his final two seasons, he helped power the Hoosiers to back‑to‑back NCAA Tournament berths. -
Overcoming Injury
After college, Thompson’s professional path hit a setback: he suffered a right tibial plateau fracture in summer 2023, sidelining him for the 2023‑24 season. The 2024‑25 season saw him return with the Memphis Hustle (G‑League), where across 28 games (2 starts) he posted 6.7 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.3 assists in 16.8 minutes per game. -
G‑League & Mexico Performances
His Hustle shooting splits: 39.6% FG, 27.8% 3PT, and 77.8% FT. That same season, he also competed in Mexico’s CIBACOPA with Venados de Mezatlan, averaging 14.9 PPG, 4.2 RPG, and 1.5 steals across 15 games.
Legia Warsaw compete in Poland’s top-tier Polska Liga Koszykówki (PLK) and finished the 2024‑25 campaign as national champions. Not only are they reigning domestic champions, but they will also compete in the prestigious Basketball Champions League, placed in a bracket with Rytas, Promitheas, and Heidelberg.
When Legia announced Thompson’s addition on Monday, it marked his first professional stint in Europe. Standing at 2.03 m (6′7″) and tipping the scales at 107 kg, he brings a versatile forward game the Polish title-holders will lean on.
-
Stepping Up: Transitioning from the G-League to European basketball presents fresh challenges—from adapting to FIBA officiating to mastering strategic team systems. But for a disciplined player like Thompson, the adjustment could foster growth and open doors across the continent.
-
European Visibility: Success with Legia could elevate Thompson’s profile significantly. Strong performances in both Poland and the Basketball Champions League may spark interest from bigger European clubs or even NBA scouts down the line.
-
TBT Return: Before shipping off overseas, Thompson is slated to join Assembly Ball—an Indiana alumni squad—in The Basketball Tournament (TBT) from July 19 at Hinkle Fieldhouse. It’s a fitting send-off for Bloomington’s own.
Race Thompson’s move to Legia Warsaw heralds an exciting new chapter:
-
A chance to heal further and thrive after injury,
-
Immediate immersion in championship-calibre basketball,
-
And invaluable exposure on the European stage—both domestically and within the Basketball Champions League.
For the former Hoosier, it’s a strategic leap: a platform to showcase his skills, broaden his game, and build a case for lasting international—or even NBA—opportunities. Legia Warsaw gains a talented, motivated forward ready to help defend their title and challenge in Europe.
Leave a Reply