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Jalen Williams, the Oklahoma City Thunder's All-NBA star, has agreed to a five-year maximum rookie contract extension that could be worth up to $287 million. The deal was confirmed by his agents, Bill Duffy and Justin Haynes of WME Basketball, as reported by ESPN. Williams, a 24-year-old standout, has rapidly ascended in the NBA, earning recognition as a first-time All-Star and helping lead the Thunder to an NBA championship last season.
Williams' performance last season was impressive, averaging 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. His contributions were pivotal in the Thunder's 68-win season and their championship victory. Williams was also named to the All-NBA Third Team and the NBA All-Defensive Second Team, showcasing his skills on both ends of the court.
The Thunder's success is built around their "Big 3" of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren, all of whom have committed to long-term deals with the team. According to Yahoo Sports, these extensions could total up to $822 million, setting the Thunder up for a promising future.
Williams was drafted 12th overall by the Thunder in 2022 and has steadily improved each season. His playmaking abilities and three-level scoring have made him a key player for Oklahoma City. During the Thunder's playoff run, Williams averaged 21.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game, with standout performances in crucial games.
With this extension, Williams solidifies his role as a cornerstone of the Thunder's roster, and the team looks poised to continue its success in the coming years.