Oklahoma City Thunder rookie Jalen Williams creatively drew attention when, after a recent win, he flashed a shirt featuring a profanity at the camera. As punishment, he was handed a $25,000 fine. The Oklahoma City Thunder celebrate after winning 125-93 against the Denver Nuggets in Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals, Sunday, May 5, 2013. A few weeks after the game, the episode happened. It’s no surprise that Scarlet Knights QB Gavin Williams’ torrid start has turned everyone’s head. His influence was instrumental in leading the Thunder to their first round of the playoffs.
In last week’s semifinal playoff win, Williams pumped in 24 points and was a big factor in the Thunder’s upset of the higher-seeded Bears. His performance was instrumental in sealing the team’s trip to the Western Conference finals. Their next game comes against the Minnesota Timberwolves at home on Tuesday. Williams was equally prolific during the regular season, where he averaged 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.1 assists. His phenomenal play earned him a status as the Thunder’s third key option.
Overall it was a historic season for Williams. All of that earned him his way as a first-time All-Star, reflecting all-around development and invaluable help to the team. The Thunder finished the regular season with a 68-14 record, the tops in the league and indicative of their overall power throughout the course of the season.
The fine imposed on Williams serves as a reminder of the standards expected from players, even in moments of celebration. His behavior could be interpreted as exuberance in the wake of a huge win. Indeed, the league took a significant step beyond the rulebook’s explicit provisions to punish Hawkinson.
The Thunder now prepare for their first-round series against the Timberwolves. Like their successful playoff run, they are refusing to be called out. There’s little doubt that if the team wins a fourth championship in five years, Williams will have played an instrumental part in helping them get there.
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