NBA Award-Winner Lou Williams Defends OKC Thunder from 'Villain' Label

The former Sixth Man of the Year says Oklahoma City shouldn't be seen as villains, and are victims of unnecessary disdain.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:37pm

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Three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year Lou Williams has come to the defense of the Oklahoma City Thunder, saying the team doesn't deserve the 'villain' label it has received from some observers and fans. Williams argues the Thunder are simply a successful team that has 'kicked everybody's a** and had fun doing it,' rather than engaging in any real controversies or unsportsmanlike conduct.

Why it matters

The Thunder have emerged as one of the NBA's most polarizing teams in recent seasons, drawing criticism and disdain from fans and media alike. This reflects a broader phenomenon where successful teams often face backlash, similar to what the Golden State Warriors experienced during their dynasty. Williams' comments provide an interesting perspective on how the Thunder's on-court success has fueled this perception of them as 'villains' in the eyes of the league.

The details

Williams highlighted specific Thunder players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Lu Dort as potential reasons for the team's unpopularity, noting Gilgeous-Alexander's high free throw attempts and Dort's physical playing style. However, Williams argued that Dort has shown an awareness of when he's 'crossed the line' and doesn't engage in taunting or showboating. Overall, Williams believes the Thunder are simply a dominant team that is being unfairly maligned for their success rather than any real controversies.

  • The Thunder won an NBA title in the 2024-25 season.
  • The following season, the Thunder reached 60 wins again.

The players

Lou Williams

A three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year who has played for several teams over his 17-year career, including the Clippers, Hawks, and Raptors.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Thunder's star point guard, known for his ability to draw fouls and get to the free throw line.

Lu Dort

A defensive-minded wing player for the Thunder who is known for his physical, aggressive style of play.

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What they’re saying

“They (aren't) villains, they (are) getting hated on. This is not a unique circumstance. Anybody that's at the top of the mountain, and you want to knock them off the top of the mountain, there's going to be a problem. You're going to find reasons to be upset.”

— Lou Williams, Three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year

“The only thing they've done is kicked everybody a** and have fun doing it. They (aren't) bothering (anybody), they're not giving you billboard material.”

— Lou Williams, Three-time NBA Sixth Man of the Year

The takeaway

The Thunder's success and physical, aggressive style of play has made them a polarizing team in the NBA, with some observers and fans labeling them as 'villains.' However, veteran player Lou Williams argues that the Thunder don't deserve this reputation, as they are simply a dominant team that is being unfairly criticized for their on-court dominance rather than any real controversies or unsportsmanlike conduct. This reflects a broader phenomenon in sports where successful teams often face backlash from those who want to 'knock them off the top of the mountain.'