Jaylin Williams report card: OKC Thunder backup center turned in career year

The Oklahoman's end-of-season player evaluation series focuses on Thunder center Jaylin Williams. While acknowledging his memorable championship parade moment, the report highlights his emergence as a valuable player beyond his charismatic personality. Williams averaged career highs in rebounds (5.6 per game), assists (2.6 per game), blocks (0.6 per game), and field goal percentage (43.9%), while tying his career high in points (5.9 per game). These are considered solid contributions for a third-team center.

Thunder general manager Sam Presti emphasized Williams' unique role as an energy source for the team. Presti shared an anecdote from a frigid, early morning shootaround in Philadelphia, where Williams actively lifted team spirits amidst challenging conditions. While other players struggled to get going, Williams was "yelling everyone's names out and making jokes," keeping everyone loose and redirecting energy away from the harsh elements, thereby maintaining a positive team mood.