Jalen Williams deal locks up Thunder's young core

It is 10 days into July, and the Oklahoma City Thunder have their core of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams locked up for the rest of this decade.

After finalizing deals with Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren, Oklahoma City agreed to terms with Williams on a five-year contract worth up to $287 million, according to ESPN's Shams Charania.

The 24-year-old guard was a catalyst in Oklahoma City's Finals run, averaging 23.6 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists against the Indiana Pacers.

These deals are monumental not just for the Thunder's ambitions to repeat as champions next year, but also for the next five to ten years.

There have been seven different champions in as many years, but Oklahoma City has the best chance of breaking that trend and becoming the league's next dynasty. The Thunder were the second-youngest team to win an NBA title in history.

What should concern the rest of the league is the youthfulness of these three players. Gilgeous-Alexander (26), Williams (24) and Holmgren (23) are not yet in their prime and were the top pieces of a championship team.

In total, the three deals could amount to $822 million over the next five seasons, which will limit the Thunder's involvement in future free agent markets. But in the end, who cares? Oklahoma City now has its foundational pieces in place for years to come, and with the roster staying intact, the Thunder have a great chance of winning back-to-back championships.

The Thunder are the favorites to win the 2025-26 NBA title at +250 on FanDuel Sportsbook.