Jalen Williams Cemented Role In the OKC Thunder Future After Breakout Rookie Year

Jalen Williams wasn’t the most talked about rookie on the Oklahoma City roster before the season began.

As the No. 12 pick, and the third draftee to join the Thunder, Williams was overshadowed by the selection of Chet Holmgren. Though when Holmgren got hurt and Ousmane Dieng was in need of development, the lights shined bright on the Santa Clara product. And Williams immediately began to make an impact when the season began.

First it was off of the bench as a key contributor, but it was clear that he needed more minutes. Then with injuries and continued success, Williams eventually found his way into the starting rotation, from there his season took off.

Williams played in 75 games starting in 62 of them, played 30.3 minutes per game, en route to averaging 14.1 points, 4.5 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game this season.

The season and huge statement from Williams earned him a nod as one of three finalists for the 2023 Rookie of the Year Award. While it’s not a guarantee he wins the award, he made a statement nonetheless as he wasn’t even thought to have a chance at the award before the season began.

With his flashy dunks, big plays and crucial presence on the floor Williams stamped himself a cemented spot in the rotation for the future in Oklahoma City.

He was third on the team in scoring behind only Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Josh Giddey, second in rebounds behind Giddey, and third in assists behind Gilgeous-Alexander and Giddey. Williams’ ability to become a go-to weapon and pillar of the rotation was crucial to the success of the overall team as they meshed well and had the ability to step up when injuries occur throughout the season.

With OKC getting more talent coming into the rotation next season Williams has a chance to take a massive step forward this offseason as the team around him continues to get better and he has the right developmental staff around him.

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