Jalen Williams’ Journey from Mid-Major to NBA Finals Star

OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLAHOMA – Jalen Williams, known as ‘J-Dub,’ is making headlines as he leads the Oklahoma City Thunder into the NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers. The forward’s journey from being a three-star recruit at Santa Clara University to becoming an NBA All-Star is remarkable. Williams, 23, reflects on his path as the Thunder prepares for Game 1 tonight.

Williams, a forward for the Thunder, has gained recognition not just for his on-court skills but also for his fashion sense, earning the nickname ‘J-Drip’ from his former college coach, Herb Sendek. Sendek praises Williams’ unique style and basketball IQ, which set him apart during his recruitment.

“It means everything,” said Williams about playing in the Finals. “Growing up, I watched my favorite players in this moment. Now, I have my chance.” He knows that opportunities like this are rare, making this moment special for him and his family.

Born in Denver, Colorado, Williams’ family moved to Phoenix when he was seven. With parents who served in the U.S. Air Force, he grew up with dreams of playing in the NBA. “My parents encouraged me to chase my dreams,” Williams recalled. Despite being lightly recruited in high school, Williams worked hard to improve his game.

At Perry High School in Arizona, Williams transformed from a 5-foot-11 freshman to a 6-foot-5 senior, averaging 25 points per game. Yet, he was still overlooked by many Division I programs. Santa Clara saw his potential and brought him on board.

His college career began amidst challenges, including a pandemic that disrupted their season. However, as he developed, Sendek and the coaching staff recognized his NBA potential. “He has a great feel for the game and a tremendous basketball IQ,” Sendek said.

In the 2021-22 season, Williams averaged 18 points, which caught the eyes of NBA scouts. He entered the 2022 draft and was selected 12th overall by the Thunder, being the first Santa Clara player drafted since Steve Nash in 1996.

Fast forward to today, Williams has solidified his place as a key player for the Thunder, averaging 21.6 points this season. His performance has led him to his first NBA All-Star selection. Along the way, he has won the respect of his teammates and coaches.

“Dub has been a special talent since he got here,” said Thunder guard Luguentz Dort. “He’s always working to improve himself and help the team.”

For Williams, this journey is not just about individual success but also about paving the way for others, including his younger brother Cody, who was drafted ninth overall in 2024. “I’ve learned to appreciate every part of my journey, as it has allowed Cody opportunities,” he said.

As the NBA Finals approach, Williams stands at the forefront of a historic moment for both himself and Arizona high school basketball. Perry High School even renamed its main street ‘Jalen Williams Way’ in his honor. “We’re incredibly proud of Jalen and all he’s accomplished,” said school principal Heather Patterson.

Game 1 tips off tonight, and the Thunder, with Williams leading the charge, aims for success in a matchup that fans are eagerly anticipating.