Jalen Williams ready for NBA Playoffs after injuries thanks to OKC Thunder's 'good energy'

Jalen Williams pumped his fists in synchrony with the "O-K-C" chants from a packed Paycom Center crowd. He then shoved his right one directly into the camera, giving nearly six million viewers a clear look at his jewelry. A 14-karat gold ring covered in more than 800 gemstones that commemorated the Thunder's 2025 NBA championship .

Williams had just received the ring prior to an Opening Night game against Houston on Oct. 21, 2025. And in that moment, his new ice numbed the pain.

The ongoing discomfort in his right shooting wrist, which required offseason surgery to repair a torn scapholunate ligament . Williams played through the injury during OKC's title run, knowing it'd cause his recovery timeline to carry into this season. But he didn't know he'd miss the first 19 games after needing a second surgery , and he didn't know he'd miss another 26 combined games due to a nagging right hamstring strain .

It's been a season filled with setbacks, but Williams no longer needs any numbing effects. He's finally healthy and ready to help OKC compete for another championship this postseason. "Patience," Williams said when asked what he has learned this season.