
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) leaves the court after Game 5 of the NBA Finals basketball series against the Indiana Pacers, Monday, June 16, 2025, in Oklahoma City. (AP Photo/Kyle Phillips)
The Oklahoma City Thunder have agreed to a five-year rookie max agreement with Jalen Williams, which may be worth up to $287 million, securing a huge long-term commitment. This deal marks a turning point in the Thunder's trajectory and comes soon after the team won the NBA championship. In the 2022 NBA draft, 24-year-old star Jalen Williams was selected as the 12th overall pick. He averaged 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists during the previous season, which was an outstanding performance.
Williams has become an important member of the Thunder, showcasing his abilities as a crucial backup on a team that has won a title. When his current rookie contract, which is worth $6.6 million, expires in the 2026–2027 season, the extension will start.
The Oklahoma City Thunder's larger plan to hold onto their young core includes this contract extension. Alongside Williams, All-NBA star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander just inked a four-year $285 million supermax extension deal, and Chet Holmgren inked a five-year, $250 million contract. The Thunder's desire to be competitive in the league is reflected in these deals, which total about $822 million in investment.
The Oklahoma City Thunder have secured their roster for the future with this agreement, guaranteeing that Holmgren, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Williams will be playing together at least until 2030. As they approach their prime, these three are anticipated to be vital to the team's quest for more titles. The team's resolve to compete at the greatest level in the NBA is demonstrated by its investment in developing talent.