Jalen Williams delivered a stunning performance in Game 5 of the NBA Finals, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 120-109 victory over their opponents. The 24-year-old guard indeed exploded for a career-high 40 points, shooting a blistering 14-of-25. His performance here cements his status as one of the league’s most noticeable young studs. His play was nothing short of phenomenal, carrying the Thunder to within a whisper of their first title since moving to Oklahoma City. In the process, he broke a number of records too.
He went 3-of-5 from deep as part of that scoring spree, emphasizing his continued evolution as an offensive threat. On top of that, he added six rebounds and four assists, proving his all around skill set. This breakout game shined a light on an impressive three-game run for Williams. His final point total of 91 points represents his highest scoring streak of the playoffs to date.
The importance of Williams’ accomplishments is hard to overstate. He became the first player younger than 25 to score 25-plus in three consecutive Finals games. He grabbed five rebounds in all three of those games, a mark most recently matched by Shaquille O’Neal in 1995. This achievement speaks greatly to his maturity and effect on the game given his young age.
In Game 5, Williams sparked an 18-6 run that put the game and the series out of reach for the Thunder. He displayed high-level touch and finishing ability at the rim. He shot 56.3% (9/16) on shots within five feet of the basket, mostly on ball-handling drives. His explosive play has all but singlehandedly been the bedrock of Oklahoma City’s success all through this postseason.
Prior to Game 5, Williams showcased his scoring prowess with a 34-point outing in Game 4 against the Minnesota Timberwolves during the Western Conference Finals. His playoff averages are just as scintillating, with 21.7 points, 5.7 rebounds, 5.0 assists and 1.4 steals per game. On top of that, his honors this season have included third-team All-NBA and second-team All-Defense.
OKC head coach Mark Daigneault lauded Williams’ night after the game, calling aggression an essential ingredient to what makes Williams tick.
“When he’s at his best, he’s playing with that type of force,” – Mark Daigneault
Williams himself was down to earth in the face of his extraordinary accomplishments. He tipped his hat to all the players who came alongside him and the coaching staff that helped him hone his game.
“Like I said, I have a staff and teammates that allow me to do that, figure out my game and just figure out spots where I can try and be dynamic. A lot of that is just me trying to pick my spots and do what I can in order to win the game. Not every game’s going to be 40 or 25. It’s kind of like doing whatever it takes to win the game.” – Jalen Williams
When I pressed Williams for what it all means, given his record-breaking performance, Williams kept his eye on the prize.
“It’s something more that I’ll look back on later than worry about what kind statement it makes. I think the only statement we have right now is we’re up 3-2 and we have to still go earn another win.” – Jalen Williams
As the Thunder march to their first championship, Williams will be watched closely by a joyful fan base. Analysts, too, will watch his performance with sharpened interest. He came through with a big-time show in game 5. Now, he’s been the most consistent player for Oklahoma City and is poised to make a significant Finals impact.
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