Oklahoma City Thunder lock in Jalen Williams with max extension worth up to $287 million

The Oklahoma City Thunder have secured forward Jalen Williams with a five-year max extension that could reach approximately $287 million.

Beginning in the 2026–27 season, Williams will earn 25% of the salary cap—projected to be just over $41 million annually—for a base total of about $239.3 million over five years, according to CBA expert Yossi Gozlan. The full amount could increase significantly if Williams qualifies for escalators under the Derrick Rose Rule.

This is OKC’s third major extension in short order, following those of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (4 years, $285M) and Chet Holmgren (5 years, up to $250M).

With these new deals in place, the Thunder are projected to have a roster cost exceeding $500 million (including luxury tax) in 2026–27.

GM Sam Presti may eventually have to make tough decisions on the roster due to financial constraints, but he still possesses a deep war chest of future assets to navigate the challenge.

Breaking: Oklahoma City Thunder All-NBA star and champion Jalen Williams has agreed to a five-year maximum rookie contract extension that could reach $287 million, agents Bill Duffy and Justin Haynes of WME Basketball told ESPN. pic.twitter.com/3lwASY42iT

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 10, 2025

Here are the projected salaries for Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams maximum contracts, worth 25 percent of the salary cap.

Williams’ escalators could reach 30 percent of the cap.

Holmgren’s sounds like they’re capped 26 percent of the cap. pic.twitter.com/TQDUSYwpEV

— Yossi Gozlan (@YossiGozlan) July 10, 2025