Mar 8, 2024; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) watches his shot against the Miami Heat during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

'I’ve Been Fortunate Enough to Retire My Parents' – Oklahoma City Thunder Star Reveals Awesome Gesture After $287 Million Contract

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Jul 17, 2025 9:22 AM ET

After helping the Oklahoma City Thunder win the 2025 NBA championship, Jalen Williams received a five-year, $287 million contract extension. This is life-changing money for Williams and his family, and he recently decided to use it in the most wholesome way.

Speaking to TMZ Sports, Williams said he wants to ensure that his parents never have to work again for the rest of their lives, with the help of his new lucrative deal.

“It’s surreal,” Williams said. “I know everybody kind of uses that term, but it’s wild because it happened really fast, like within the span of three years, my life is completely different. But yeah, I mean, it’s cool. I’ve been fortunate enough to retire my parents.”

Mar 14, 2024; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) celebrates after dunking against the Dallas Mavericks during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

Williams is under contract with the Oklahoma City Thunder until 2030-31. He’ll earn at least $41 million in annual salary in the next five seasons.

Oklahoma City Thunder News: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander sends heartfelt message to team during the ESPYs

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recently won the 2025 ESPY Award for Best Male Athlete, becoming the first Oklahoma City Thunder player to receive the prestigious honor. During his speech, the reigning league MVP expressed gratitude to his team and loved ones.

Jun 24, 2025; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, center, holds up a heart shape with his hands for fans during the Oklahoma City Thunder Champions parade. Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images

“I wanna thank my teammates. Best basketball team in the world, and they earned that. They deserved that. I love you guys too, not as much as the other guys, but I love you guys too,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.

Gilgeous-Alexander also received a massive contract extension from the Oklahoma City Thunder worth four years and $285 million, making him the highest annual earner in NBA history.