This summer has been the year of extensions and massive paydays. First, it was Jabari Smith Jr. of the Houston Rockets. Then, Paolo Banchero of the Orlando Magic and Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder received rookie max extensions. One player was left, though, and he has been the best player in this class, as evidenced by his accolades. Jalen Williams was just extended for a five-year rookie max extension.
Breaking: Oklahoma City Thunder All-NBA star and champion Jalen Williams has agreed to a five-year maximum rookie contract extension that could reach $287 million, agents Bill Duffy and Justin Haynes of WME Basketball told ESPN. pic.twitter.com/3lwASY42iT
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 10, 2025
First-Time Thunder All-Star Receives Massive Contract Extension
Jalen Williams Receives Massive Extension
Williams was a key component in the Thunder’s victory in the 2025 Finals. He averaged 21.4 points across the playoffs on 44.9% shooting from the field. He was also a stellar defender, with 1.4 steals per game.
During the regular season, Williams averaged 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and 1.6 steals. These numbers earned him his first All-Star nod. It also led to the forward/guard being named to the All-Defensive Second Team and All-NBA Third Team. Williams was well deserving of this extension and accolades thanks to his play, but he also had a considerable role early in the season.
When Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein were injured at the same time, the Thunder needed a center. This is where Williams came into the fold. He played the center position and helped OKC stay afloat. His impact goes beyond the numbers, but his mentality on the court showed that he is willing to do whatever it takes to win a basketball game.
Will The Second Apron Ruin This Team and Extensions?
The scary second apron is now around the corner for the Thunder. The trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, and Holmgren will account for 85% of OKC’s salary. Many teams would not be able to live through this, but the Thunder are different. Thanks to Sam Presti, Oklahoma City will be able to navigate the CBA easily.
Their extensions will not be seen until the 2026-27 season. This is the first year of the Williams and Holmgren extensions. Then, Gilgeous-Alexander’s extension goes into effect during the 2027-2028 season. By signing now, the Thunder secured their trio throughout the decade. The team will have to go into the apron and tax at some point, but for now, they live. When that time comes, the Thunder will not fall victim to it, according to Presti.
During the end-of-season press conference, Presti stated that OKC will not feel the effects of the tax until the next CBA. This is thanks to the rebuild the team went through. Some players, such as Hartenstein and Isaiah Joe, will likely be gone after a season or two. But the Thunder prepared for this by perfecting a team-building strategy. By acquiring numerous draft picks, they can replace these role players with young, cost-effective talent through the draft.
The Last Word On Jalen Williams’ Extension
This was a well-deserved contract and should not come as a surprise. Williams earned this money after a stellar season, capping it off with a ring. The Thunder will now ultimately run into the apron at some point, but that will not be for another two seasons. For now, OKC will let the good times roll and try and go back-to-back next season.
Featured image: © Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
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