Thunder Welcoming Back Star Jalen Williams as They Aim for Repeat Title

Williams's return comes at the perfect time as Oklahoma City looks to solidify its NBA-best record.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 10:22pm

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The Oklahoma City Thunder, who already lead the NBA with a 56-15 record, are about to get even better with the return of starting forward Jalen Williams. Williams, who has missed significant time this season due to injuries, is set to rejoin the team on Monday against the Philadelphia 76ers. His return comes at a crucial time as the Thunder look to secure the top seed in the playoffs and defend their championship.

Why it matters

The Thunder have managed to post the NBA's best record despite dealing with injuries to key players, including Williams, who has missed over a month with a hamstring strain. His return will provide a major boost to the team's starting lineup and give them an even stronger chance of repeating as champions.

The details

In 26 starts this season, Williams is averaging 17.5 points, 4.7 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game. He has dealt with two separate hamstring injuries that have limited him to just 26 games so far. The Thunder's regular starting five from last season's title run have only played together for 41 minutes this year, going 1-4 in those games.

  • Williams is set to return on Monday, March 23, when the Thunder face the 76ers.
  • The Thunder have 11 games remaining in the regular season, including matchups against top Eastern Conference teams like the Pistons, Celtics and Knicks.

The players

Jalen Williams

A starting forward for the Oklahoma City Thunder who has missed significant time this season due to injuries, including a hamstring strain.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The star point guard and leader of the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Lu Dort

A starting forward for the Oklahoma City Thunder who has also missed time this season due to injury.

Chet Holmgren

The Thunder's young star center who has played a key role in the team's success this season.

Isaiah Hartenstein

The starting center for the Oklahoma City Thunder last season.

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What they’re saying

“Williams's return is perfect timing for the Thunder ahead of the postseason. OKC was the first NBA team to clinch a playoff spot on Tuesday.”

— Shams Charania, NBA Insider

What’s next

The Thunder will look to continue their 11-game winning streak as they welcome back Jalen Williams and aim to secure the top seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

The takeaway

The Oklahoma City Thunder have proven to be a resilient and dominant team this season, overcoming injuries to key players to post the NBA's best record. With Jalen Williams set to return, they only stand to get stronger as they look to defend their championship.