Before WKU: Thurston came to WKU from Georgia Military College, where he appeared in seven games on the offensive line for the 10-2 Bulldogs during the 2024 season.
HS/Misc.: Thurston prepped at Monroe Area High in Georgia, where he was considered a two-star offensive line prospect by Rivals. He also played along the defensive line during his high school career with the Purple Hurricanes, collecting 43 tackles, eight tackles for loss, two sacks and two quarterback hurries in 13 games as a senior, according to his team's MaxPreps page.