The remarkable rise of Oklahoma City Thunder star Jalen Williams from an overlooked college player to one of the most promising young talents in the NBA has been a captivating story over just three short years. In an exclusive interview with TMZ Sports, Williams shares how his newfound success has enabled him to gift his beloved parents the ultimate reward—retirement, which is a testament to his dedication and hard work.

Chosen as the twelfth overall pick in the 2022 draft, Jalen has maximized his opportunities in the professional arena. His 2025 season was nothing short of spectacular, marked by selections to the NBA All-Star team and the All-Defensive squad, culminating in a coveted NBA championship. To top it all off, he secured an impressive five-year contract extension worth $287 MILLION, reflecting his status as a cornerstone player for the Thunder.

Recently, we had the opportunity to catch up with Jalen, affectionately known as J-Dub, at LAX, where he shared his thoughts on the whirlwind of events that have transpired in his life. Despite his overwhelming success, he confessed that he has yet to fully process everything, including the significance of his monumental payday and the responsibilities that come with it.

“It’s surreal,” Williams expressed, candidly reflecting on his rapid ascent in the world of professional basketball. “I know that everyone uses that term, but it’s wild because everything changed so quickly. Over the span of just three years, my life has transformed completely.” His words resonate with the challenges and triumphs faced by young athletes navigating the demanding landscape of the NBA.

“But yeah, I mean, it’s cool. I’ve been fortunate enough to retire my parents,” he added, showcasing not only his financial success but also his commitment to family and gratitude for their sacrifices throughout his journey.

Williams’ parents, Ronald and Nicole, dedicated many years of their lives serving in the U.S. Air Force. Ronald worked diligently as a jet engine mechanic and logistics specialist for an impressive 24 years, while Nicole devoted her career to the medical field, both exemplifying hard work and resilience. Their sacrifices have paved the way for Jalen’s success.

In addition to his burgeoning career, Williams revealed that he is also focusing on his brother Cody, who is embarking on his own professional journey with the Utah Jazz. Jalen expressed his intention to take a step back to appreciate all that he has achieved, both personally and professionally.

Throughout the 2024-25 season, Williams delivered impressive averages of 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, showcasing his multifaceted skill set. His performance was pivotal in leading the Thunder to their significant victory in the NBA Finals against the Indiana Pacers, solidifying his place among the elite players in the league.

So, what’s next for Jalen Williams? He noted that while his lucrative contract hasn’t fully reflected in his bank account yet, he does have plans to treat himself a bit in the near future. This speaks to his grounded nature despite the rapid changes in his financial landscape.