Jalen Williams answers biggest lesson he's learned from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Jalen Williams answers biggest lesson he's learned from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Looking like a Gen Z version of Michael Jordon and Scottie Pippen, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams have headlined one of the most dominant squads in NBA history. The Oklahoma City Thunder are four wins away from a championship to cement their spot.
While not apples-to-apples — at least not yet — you have a superb-efficient 30-point scorer and an elite two-way wing in each duo. The Thunder have translated their 68-14 record to playoff success. They made the Western Conference field look like a walk in the park.
Since arriving in 2022, Williams has been tied to Gilgeous-Alexander. Both have ascended in their respective career trajectories. Williams went from a small-school lottery pick to an All-NBA member. Gilgeous-Alexander went from a first-time All-Star to a first-time MVP winner.
Now on the cusp of an NBA championship, Williams has had a front-row view to see Gilgeous-Alexander grow into one of the league's icons. He had a chance to reflect on their three-year journey together ahead of the 2025 NBA Finals Game 1.
"His mentality. Just a winner. He just has an 'I'm going to get it done' mentality. I think that's kind of rubbed off on the rest of the team. You can always see, he doesn't make excuses. I think that bleeds over into the team," Williams said. "I would say I've probably taken that from him. I think that's where he's grown up as a leader. Not saying he wasn't earlier on in his career but just for our team he's been really good leading us that way. He's a good, like, lead-by-example."
If the Thunder beat the Pacers, Gilgeous-Alexander and Williams will be two of the biggest reasons. They've headlined their team this season as both became All-Star and All-NBA teammates. Your best players are naturally going to spend a lot of time together, so it's insightful to hear his thoughts on his growth in intangibles.
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