Hailey
The Oklahoma City Thunder are doubling down on their youthful powerhouse. Rising star Jalen Williams has signed a lucrative five-year contract extension valued at up to $287 million, a major move that solidifies his role as a foundational piece in the franchise’s long-term vision.
Thunder Secure Core After NBA Finals Triumph
Fresh off a historic NBA Finals victory over the Indiana Pacers, the Thunder are showing clear intent to remain dominant in the league.
The organization is placing major bets on their elite trio: Jalen Williams, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Chet Holmgren. Combined, their deals total a staggering $822 million, underscoring Oklahoma City’s commitment to maintaining a championship-caliber roster.
Jalen Williams’ Breakout Season: Stats and Honors
Jalen Williams, just 23 years old, had an exceptional third season that catapulted him into stardom. He delivered impressive averages of:
- 21.6 points
- 5.3 rebounds
- 5.1 assists
- 1.6 steals per game
His performance earned widespread recognition, including:
- A first-time All-Star selection
- Placement on the All-NBA Third Team
- Inclusion in the NBA All-Defensive Second Team
Despite playing through a fully torn scapholunate ligament in his wrist, Williams didn’t miss a single game during the season — a testament to his toughness and commitment.
A Place in NBA History
Williams etched his name in the record books alongside legends. He became just the second player in NBA history, after Kobe Bryant, to win a title at age 23 or younger while averaging at least 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists.
Thunder’s $822 Million ‘Big Three’ Investment
With Williams now secured, the Thunder’s core trio is complete:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, reigning NBA MVP, signed a four-year, $285 million extension
- Chet Holmgren, the dynamic center, locked in a five-year deal worth up to $250 million
- Combined with Williams, the trio forms a foundation costing $822 million
Williams and Gilgeous-Alexander also made history as one of just four All-NBA duos under 27 to win an NBA title — joining the iconic Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson duo of 2015.
NBA Finals Performance: Williams Steps Up
In the Finals showdown against the Pacers, Jalen Williams elevated his game, averaging:
- 23.5 points
- 5.0 rebounds
- 3.7 assists per game
His Game 5 explosion — a 40-point effort on 14-of-25 shooting — was instrumental in giving the Thunder a pivotal 3-2 series lead, ultimately leading to their championship win.
A Championship Season for the Ages
The 2024–25 NBA season was one of the most memorable in Oklahoma City Thunder history:
- 84 total wins (regular season + playoffs), tying for third-most in NBA history
- A +12.9 scoring differential, the best in league history
- Led the NBA in:
- Defensive rating (106.6)
- Opponent field goal percentage (43.6%)
- Opponent turnovers per game (17)
With an average roster age of just 25.6 years, the Thunder became the youngest team to capture an NBA title since the 1977 Portland Trail Blazers.
Additional Roster Moves to Build Depth
Thunder GM Sam Presti isn’t stopping at the core trio. He has made key depth signings to fortify the team’s rotation:
- Jaylin Williams, forward, secured with a three-year, $24 million deal
- Ajay Mitchell, promising guard, inked a three-year, $9 million contract
These additions ensure that the Thunder’s young, dynamic roster stays competitive for years to come.
The Oklahoma City Thunder are building a dynasty-in-the-making, anchored by the record-breaking extension of Jalen Williams.
With a championship already in hand, a superstar trio locked in, and smart roster additions underway, Oklahoma City is poised for a dominant run in the NBA for the foreseeable future.