The Oklahoma City Thunder have made a significant move to solidify their future by agreeing to a five-year max contract extension with forward Jalen Williams worth up to $287 million. This deal underscores their commitment to building a championship-caliber team around their young star players, including Chet Holmgren, who recently signed a similar extension.
Jalen Williams, who was selected 12th overall by the Thunder in the 2022 NBA Draft after a standout career at Santa Clara, has quickly established himself as a key player in Oklahoma City. In his rookie season, he showcased his potential as the team bounced back from a disappointing 24-58 record the previous year, finishing 40-42 and clinching a spot in the play-in tournament. He made an immediate impact, averaging 14.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.4 steals per game.
As the 2023-24 season rolled around, Williams continued to elevate his game, contributing to a remarkable 57-25 record that saw the Thunder finish atop the Western Conference. His scoring increased to an impressive 19.1 points per game, and his efficiency was evident with a shooting percentage of 54.0 percent from the field and an even more impressive 42.7 percent from beyond the arc.
Williams’ growth didn’t stop there. In what was a breakout year for him, he earned his first trip to the All-Star Game, averaging 21.6 points on 48.4 percent shooting while also contributing 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.6 steals. His performance was pivotal for the Thunder, who finished the regular season with the best record in the league at 68-14, culminating in their first championship victory since relocating from Seattle in 2008. Williams shone particularly bright in the Finals, averaging 23.6 points per game, including a spectacular 40-point performance in a crucial Game 5 win.
This contract extension is a clear indication that the Thunder see Williams not just as a rising star but as a cornerstone of their franchise. Already recognized as a top-tier player alongside NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren, Williams has emerged as a crucial part of the Thunder’s core. With this long-term deal, Oklahoma City is strategically positioning itself for sustained success, ensuring that their bright future includes one of the league’s most promising talents.
