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[Saba Sports News] Shai Gilgeous-Alexander may have been the driving force behind the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Game 4 win over the Indiana Pacers with his clutch 35-point performance, but it was Jalen Williams who laid the foundation.
Williams’ scoring and playmaking helped keep the Thunder within striking distance before a late 12-1 run sealed the 111-104 victory.
Ahead of Game 5, Gilgeous-Alexander reflected on Williams’ evolution with the Thunder, praising his impact and versatility.
“Dub’s made tremendous strides. He’s one of the biggest reasons why we’re here,” SGA said. “Being able to shoulder what he does every night on both ends takes pressure off everyone else — including me. He’s a gamer. He’s a winner.”
Gilgeous-Alexander continued, “He keeps getting better in every situation. Whether it’s working with me in the two-man game or switching onto a big defensively, he makes it easier for everyone. He’s a Swiss Army knife, and he’s only improving with every game. I can’t wait to see where he ends up.”
Williams put up 27 points on 8-of-18 shooting, adding seven rebounds and three assists. In the NBA Finals, he’s averaging 22.3 points, 5.5 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 0.8 steals — with Friday’s outing marking one of his more efficient showings.
Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault also spoke about Williams’ growth, recalling his emergence during his rookie year.
“When he joined us, like with most players, we didn’t hand him the keys,” Daigneault said. “We put him in the system and let him earn it. He started off the bench, but he kept proving he could handle more — and his efficiency and impact only grew. When players do that, they’re declaring themselves. And he certainly did.”
Now fresh off his first All-Star season, Williams has earned spots on both the All-NBA Third Team and the All-Defensive Second Team, solidifying his status as one of the league’s fastest-rising stars.