By Chalien Dantes

Fresh off their first NBA championship, the Oklahoma City Thunder have secured their future by signing Jalen Williams to a five-year, $287 million max extension, thereby completing their superstar trio alongside Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren.

Williams, the 12th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, has developed into one of the league’s most dynamic young talents.

After averaging 14.1 points as a rookie, he made significant leaps each season, improving to 19.1 points during OKC’s 57-win campaign in 2023-24 before breaking out as an All-Star last season with 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game.

Of course, OKC wasn’t going to let Williams get away. The guy’s turned into an absolute force—the perfect running mate for MVP Shai and rising star Chet. Together, they’ve transformed OKC from rebuilders to champions practically overnight.