Just a few short days ago, we examined some former Raptors players who are still in NBA free agency as 2025 lies ahead. One notable player is Oshae Brissett, who had a brief stint with the Raptors during the 2019-20 season. Although Brissett’s time with the Raptors was not particularly remarkable, he quickly developed into a quality rotation player with the Indiana Pacers.
In the late 2010s and early 2020s, the Indiana Pacers found themselves mired in the middle of the NBA’s Eastern Conference, balancing a roster filled with win-now players while still striving to build for the future. During this transitional phase, Brissett emerged as a reliable forward in the Hoosier State. However, as the roster strengthened and the team refocused its efforts on the playoffs, Brissett gradually faded from the Indiana scene.
In the 2023 offseason, Brissett signed with the Boston Celtics. Although he wouldn’t play a pivotal role on a championship-caliber team, he would serve as a dependable reserve, contributing in limited minutes. Ultimately, his decision paid off, as it led Brissett to an NBA title in 2024 when the Celtics defeated the Mavericks to secure their 18th franchise championship.
Choosing to bet on himself last offseason in hopes of securing a larger role in the NBA, Brissett's decision unexpectedly backfired, leaving him to navigate free agency until now.
The 26-year-old forward would offer insight into the challenges faced by a player navigating the often demoralizing reality of NBA free agency purgatory.
Oshae Brissett spoke about life as an NBA free agent in his latest vlog
In a clip from the Toronto native's YouTube vlog shared on X (formerly Twitter), Oshae Brissett explained how he regularly watches NBA games, envisioning how he would fit on various rosters and believing he is better than some of the players who secured their spots ahead of him.
Former Celtic Oshae Brissett opened up about life as a free agent on his last vlog:
— Daniel Donabedian (@danield1214) January 3, 2025
“It hasn’t been easy, man … I watch NBA games all day … I wanna see where I can fit in, how I can help. And I see it. ‘I’m better than that guy, I’m better than that guy’ … I can’t give up.” pic.twitter.com/AfiHC88ucL
Sometimes, the harsh reality is that the NBA game is cutthroat, both on and off the court. Ultimately, the NBA is a business, and regardless of one’s talent, it cannot accommodate everyone. Fortunately for professional basketball players, there are international leagues where they can showcase or refine their skills. However, for many, this situation is a far cry from the bright lights of their past NBA careers.
Oshae Brissett is by no means an unplayable NBA player at this point in his career. Still relatively young, he can fulfill a valuable role without needing to dominate the ball, and he already boasts an NBA championship.
Considering everything, it appears that no NBA roster has recognized these qualities enough to justify a spot for him. However, adopting an optimistic perspective, Brissett's dedication and self-belief are sure to lead him to success soon, whether that be in the NBA, the G League, or elsewhere.
Hopefully, Oshae Brissett's journey in the NBA isn't over just yet.