Skip Bayless’ Thunder Fandom Questioned After Misnaming Player

Oklahoma City, OK — Skip Bayless, a well-known sports commentator and native Oklahoman, is drawing scrutiny for his recent support of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the NBA playoffs. As the team strives for its first championship since relocating from Seattle, Bayless has ramped up his social media presence, referring to the Thunder as ‘my Thunder.’

However, Bayless’s enthusiastic support has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Notably, after the Thunder’s Game 2 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves, he confused players Jalen Williams and Jaylin Williams, referring to Jalen as ‘JWill’ during a tweet about the game.

Jalen Williams, who scored 26 points in the contest, was a key player in the win, while Jaylin Williams did not play. Bayless’s slip-up highlights a disparity between his recent overtures of fandom and the deeper knowledge expected from true supporters of the team.

A tweet from Bayless read, ‘I loved the way JWill and SGA and Chet closed that game after Minnesota cut it to 10. Crucial big plays.’ This led seasoned Thunder fans to call him out, questioning his authenticity as a fan.

One fan tweeted, ‘You’re not a real Thunder fan if you don’t know the difference between jdub and jwill,’ indicating that there are established nicknames that should be known by those truly following the team. The Williams duo’s similar names have caused confusion for broadcasters, but fans familiar with the team quickly know who is who.

As admiration for his hometown team grows, it remains to be seen if Bayless will earn his place among true Thunder fans by correcting his errors and gaining a deeper understanding of the players.