Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – The joy of the Oklahoma City Thunder's 108‑101 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers was eclipsed on Sunday night as Jalen Williams went down with a horrific injury.
With just 1:14 left on the clock, the 25‑year‑old drove from the left side toward the basket in the final quarter, trying to finish with a dunk. However, his opponents Derrick Jones Jr. and Kris Dunn also leapt high and blocked him in the air.
Williams then landed awkwardly on his left foot, which gave way and twisted completely to the side.
The severity of the injury was evident from his teammates' reactions: A quick glance at Williams' lower leg was enough for Chet Holmgren and Ajay Mitchell to immediately cover their eyes and turn away.
Superstar Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander, who was closest, covered his mouth with one hand and looked toward the bench, while Isaiah Hartenstein buried his face in a towel.
On the court, Williams received medical attention from the Thunder staff for several minutes before helpers, amid the fans' applause, lifted him onto a stretcher and carried him off the floor.
His injured leg was wrapped, and he gave the crowd a final thumbs‑up with both hands.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gets emotional after Williams' brutal injury
"We're not doing great," Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault said after the shocking incident, per ESPN.
In an interview with sideline reporter Nick Gallo, Gilgeous‑Alexander even got teary‑eyed.
"I just feel bad for him," the clearly distraught point guard said, recalling that he and Williams had celebrated an NBA title together in June 2025.
"It's obviously going to be tough without a player like that. But he's not gone forever. He'll be back better than ever, and we know it. We've just got to hold the fort down until he comes back."
How serious Williams' injury is remains unclear. However, media reports say an update on his condition should be provided as early as this Monday.