Thunder’s Jaylen Williams drops respect truth bomb after win against 76ers

After Jalen Williams and the Oklahoma City Thunder withstood a 38-29 third quarter of Philadelphia 76ers that reduced their lead to six points (87-81), they defended their opponent in the last frame. The Thunder held the 76ers at bay in the final frame, outscoring them 31-21 to secure a 118-102 victory. Against the Sixers, however, Williams reminded reporters to never take an NBA team lightly, regardless of who is available or not.

The 76ers were without their All-Stars Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Paul George. Add Caleb Martin to the list, and Philadelphia’s starting lineup was stretched thin against a relatively healthy Thunder team. In the midst of a lackluster third quarter, Oklahoma City nearly surrendered a 24-point lead. however, The Thunder celebrated with their sideline reporter.

After the win, Williams discussed the importance of never taking an opponent for granted.

“Everybody out there deserves to be in the NBA,” Williams said. “So that’s how we treat it.” We’re still trying to accomplish what we’re trying to do no matter who’s there and who’s playing — you still have to treat teams like that with respect. You can lose to anybody, and you can lose to anybody in the NBA. So that’s kind of how we approach those kinds of games.”

Thunder All-Star Shai Giljus-Alexander had 32 points, nine assists and two steals. Williams finished with 24 points, six assists, four rebounds and three steals. 76ers forward Justin Edwards with 25 points and Jeff Dowtin Jr. with 18 points led Philly off the bench, while Gershon Yabusele led the starters with 17 points and seven rebounds.

Jaylen Williams on DPOI change, backs Thunder teammate

Thunder ahead Jalen Williams wants changes to teams for all defensive backsincluding watching the NBA pick two Defensive Players of the Year. Williams talked about it during his appearance on The Young Man and the Three podcast.

“I think they should add a third team,” Williams said. “I have a big thing with it.” I don’t know how there (are) three teams on offense and there are only two teams on defense.”

He says his teammate Lou Dort deserves to be on one of those three teams.

“He definitely deserves it,” Williams said. “At least when I’ve been here, these last three years, he’s had the toughest matchup every year, every game in over 82 games. Played 100 games last year, has the best player for 100 games, the whole game. I don’t know how you don’t get it.

The Thunder concluded their four-game road trip with a 3-1 record.