Jalen Williams Steps Up as Thunder’s Versatile Center Amid Injuries

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — When Chet Holmgren crumpled to the floor in pain during a Jan. 16 game against the Golden State Warriors, the Oklahoma City Thunder faced a crisis. Holmgren, their rising star center, suffered a pelvic fracture, sidelining him for at least two months. With backup bigs Jaylin Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein also injured, the Thunder turned to an unlikely solution: 6-foot-6 guard Jalen Williams.

“He sees challenges as opportunities instead of excuses,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said of Williams, who has embraced the role of filling in at center despite his smaller stature. Known as “J-Dub,” Williams has become a linchpin for the Thunder, averaging career highs of 20.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.2 assists this season.

Williams’ versatility has been crucial for the Thunder, who lead the Western Conference with a 33-6 record. His 7-foot-2 wingspan and elite basketball IQ allow him to guard players of all sizes, from 6-foot-11 Giannis Antetokounmpo to 7-foot-3 Victor Wembanyama. “He allows us to really do anything out there,” teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander said. “He’s so versatile defensively and so good around the rim.”

Williams’ journey to this point has been marked by perseverance. Undersized and under-recruited in high school, he played college basketball at Santa Clara University, where he developed into an NBA prospect. Drafted 12th overall in 2022, Williams quickly adapted to the NBA, earning a reputation as a do-it-all player. “His greatness is the cumulative effect of all the things he does,” Daigneault said. “He’s good at everything.”

Despite his success, Williams remains motivated by past slights. “I still have that mentality,” he said, referencing his underdog roots. His father, Ron, a lifelong Lakers fan, once shared a story about Magic Johnson stepping up in the 1980 NBA Finals when Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was injured. That tale has become a blueprint for Williams, who has thrived in his new role.

As the Thunder continue their push for a championship, Williams’ ability to adapt and excel in multiple roles has been a key factor. “He’s been special for us and is a big reason why we are where we are,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. With Holmgren nearing a return and the Thunder’s chemistry stronger than ever, Williams’ versatility could be the X-factor that propels them to new heights.