Jalen Williams, the 24-year-old star of the Oklahoma City Thunder, has made waves in the NBA Finals, drawing comparisons to the legendary Scottie Pippen. While Pippen was winding down his career with the Portland Trail Blazers when Williams was born, the young player appreciates the nod to one of basketball’s greats. “I feel like a new-age Scottie maybe,” Williams remarked in an interview with ESPN. “I’m not mad at that one at all. I like that. And then obviously Shai [Gilgeous-Alexander] gets a little Jordan comparison, so that’s cool. It’s very cool. Any time you’re compared to somebody like that, you’re doing something right.”
The buzz surrounding Williams has intensified, especially after his standout performances in the NBA Finals. Pippen himself has weighed in, stating he sees “a lot of me” in Williams and believes he has the potential to be even greater. “I don’t even want to put a cap on him to say that he’s going to be me,” Pippen told ESPN. “I see him being greater, if I can say that. Just because of where the game is today. They have offensive freedom. We didn’t have that. We mostly ran out of a system. These guys have the freedom to shoot 3-balls and things of that nature. Players that are playing in today’s game have a chance to be better than players in the past because of the ability to shoot the ball.”
Williams has embraced the pressure of the Finals, often downplaying the distractions that come with it. “I honestly try not to answer my phone as much, even though that probably sounds like I’m a jerk,” he said. “There are just a lot of highs and lows throughout the series. You don’t get as many texts if you don’t play well. I try to keep that in perspective, too.” His focus has paid off, as he has emerged as a key player for the Thunder, showcasing his skills alongside fellow star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
The dynamic duo of Williams and Gilgeous-Alexander has been a talking point among analysts and fans alike. Many believe they form one of the best pairs in Thunder history. Rylan Stiles, a sports commentator, noted, “Jalen Williams and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s perfect fit makes for the best duo in Thunder history, which is saying a lot.” Their synergy on the court has led to impressive performances, including Williams’ remarkable Game 5, where he scored 40 points, a feat that placed him among an elite group of players who have scored 40 or more points in an NBA Finals game at such a young age.
In fact, Williams’ scoring prowess has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s all-time greats. He became one of only nine players aged 24 or younger to score 40 points in a Finals game, joining the likes of Magic Johnson, Russell Westbrook, and Jerry West. His performance in Game 5 not only solidified his status as a rising star but also etched his name into NBA history. “That’s cool,” Williams said, reflecting on the significance of his achievement. “We won the game, so that’s cool.”
As the Thunder find themselves on the brink of an NBA title, Williams’ ability to perform under pressure has been a crucial factor. His 40-point game in Game 5 was not just a personal best but also a testament to his growth as a player. Williams has shown he can be a reliable scorer, a playmaker, and a versatile defender, making him a valuable asset for the Thunder as they chase their first championship since relocating to Oklahoma City.
Analysts have praised Williams for his all-around game and his ability to step up when it matters most. During the Finals, he has averaged over 25 points per game, showcasing a scoring ability that rivals some of the greatest players in the league’s history. His performance has sparked conversations about his potential to become a franchise player, with many believing he could lead the Thunder for years to come.
As Williams continues to shine on the biggest stage, the comparisons to Pippen may become more frequent. However, it’s essential to recognize that while he may share some similarities with the Hall of Famer, Williams is carving out his own legacy. Lou Williams, a former NBA player, emphasized the importance of allowing young players like Williams to establish their identities. “Can he have a great career like Scottie Pippen did? Absolutely,” Lou Williams said. “Jalen Williams is paving his own path. So, I understand the comparison, but allow some of these young guys to create the best form of themselves.”
The Thunder’s coaching staff has played a significant role in Williams’ development, providing him with the necessary support and guidance to thrive in high-pressure situations. Williams has credited his coaching staff and teammates for helping him navigate the challenges of the Finals. “I’m extremely fortunate that I have a coaching staff and teammates that allow me to have those ugly moments in the season,” he said. “I’m extremely fortunate I have a coach that allowed me to go through that to be successful.”
As the NBA Finals continue, all eyes will be on Jalen Williams. His ability to channel the spirit of a new-age Scottie Pippen while forging his own path will be crucial for the Thunder’s success. With the championship within reach, Williams is not only proving himself as a key player but also as a future superstar in the league. As he continues to rise, the comparisons to Pippen may only intensify, but for now, Williams is focused on helping his team secure a title and writing his own chapter in NBA history.