Chet Holmgren keeps it 100 about Jalen Williams’ growth with Thunder

After Oklahoma City Thunder All-Star Jalen Williams’ 33 points led his shorthanded team to a 125-112 win against the Phoenix Suns, Chet Holmgren addressed Williams’ significant strides in 2024-25. As Jalen is putting a bow on his first All-Star season in the third-to-last game of the regular season, Holmgren reflected on the first-year All-Star’s growth on both ends of the floor.

Holmgren, the Thunder’s second overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft, was selected ten picks before Oklahoma City’s second first-round pick. Williams, of the same draft class, shared his take on the third-year forward’s impressive season.

“There’s a long list of things I could say. He’s just steadily improved at everything that he was already good at on the defensive end,” Holmgren said. “Being able to pretty much handle any assignment he’s asked to do, whoever he’s asked to guard, whatever coverage he’s asked to execute, he’s improved over time doing that. And he was already at a high level before, and the same thing on the offensive end. His ability to create space, get his shot off, and make those shots has continued to improve.”

Williams also finished with seven rebounds, five assists, and three steals in the Thunder’s 13-point win against the Suns.

“I think one of his big areas that nobody really touches on is kind of his ability to run the offense,” Holmgren added. “Even if it’s not facilitated for others, it’s being able to pick his spots against set defenses, and read how to get to those. He’s done a really good job of that.”

Chet Holmgren added 22 points, 10 rebounds, and four assists as Oklahoma City eliminated the Suns from playoff contention in the Western Conference.

Jalen Williams spoils Suns’ playoff hopes in Thunder win