Fresh off winning their first-ever NBA Championship, a huge summer awaits the Oklahoma City Thunder. Many doubted the Thunder winning it all this year and labeled them as “too young” and “too fragile“. However, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Co. proved them wrong. However, winning the championship was one thing; now, a more daunting task awaits the Thunder. Not only are they now having to bear the weight of expectations, but they’ll have to come up with a way of keeping their young core together to build a dynasty, and they might’ve taken their first step.

The OKC front office decided to splash some cash to keep their championship-winning roster intact, loaded with Jaylin Williams’ nod. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that Jaylin Williams had given his thumbs up to a three-year $24 million contract with the Thunder. “Oklahoma City Thunder C/F Jaylin Williams is signing a new three-year, $24 million contract extension with the franchise, sources tell ESPN.” This comes after Williams declined his $2.1 million player option for the upcoming campaign to work out a deal with the franchise.

Of course, this news gave another reason to celebrate for Williams and his loved ones, as his girlfriend, Alanna Harris, re-posted the story to express her excitement for the news. Speechless at the development, she reacted “🎉🎉⚡⚡💙💙”. It’s only obvious for her to be happy for her long-time boyfriend, given his importance in this Thunder roster. Williams has developed into a quality backup option behind Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. 

The 23-year-old averaged 5.9 points along with 5.6 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 47 games last season. Although he did not get much playing time in the playoffs, his stats aren’t too bad for a rotation player. Not to mention, Jaylin Williams also made a huge impact from the sidelines. He’s the glue that sticks together this OKC team by motivating them. So, this seems like a totally deserved payday for the Thunder center. Moreover, it’s a win-win situation for both parties, as the OKC Thunder gets a reliable backup option and William gets long-term financial safety.

Meanwhile, apart from winning his first ring and inking a new lucrative contract, Jaylin Williams also turned 23, giving his close ones more reasons to celebrate!

Wishes pour in for OKC’s Jaylin Williams as he turns 23

Signing a new three-year deal worth a whopping $24 million, that’s one way to celebrate your birthday, right? While most of us can only dream of having such a stunning day, OKC Thunder star Jaylin Williams is living it. The Thunder center turned 23 and simultaneously inked a new deal with his team. It’s great to see Williams get all the love and recognition he deserves after a successful season with the Thunder. Wishes poured in from everywhere as Jaylin Williams celebrated his special day.

One of the first to wish J-Will was his teammate and close friend Jalen Williams. “Happy Birthday, Twin, “J-Dub posted on his story with a picture from their championship-winning night at the Paycom Center. Both the Thunder stars share great chemistry not just on but also off the court, and that was on display as Jalen Williams wished Jaylin Williams on his special day. However, he wasn’t the only one, as the NBA’s official X account also sent out their wishes.

“Join us in wishing Jaylin Williams of the @OKCThunder a HAPPY 23rd BIRTHDAY! #NBABDAY” The League posted. It has been an eventful year for Williams, to say the least. Entering his third year with the Thunder, the former second-round pick wouldn’t have expected winning his first championship, signing a new contract, and having the time of his life when the season started. Nonetheless, here he is, as Williams will try to cement his place in this star-studded OKC roster and aim to add another ring to his collection next season.