Shai Gilgeous‑Alexander scored 34 points and the Oklahoma City Thunder stayed undefeated, but they lost All‑Star guard Jalen Williams to what appeared to be a serious leg injury during their 108‑101 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday night.
Oklahoma City secured their third consecutive win to open the season, yet suffered three injuries, including Williams, who went down hard on a drive with 1:14 left. His left leg gave way as he landed, his foot bending at an unnatural angle. The 25‑year‑old was taken off the court on a stretcher, his leg covered by towels, and he covered his mouth in distress while Gilgeous‑Alexander and players on both teams looked in shock.
“We’re not doing great,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said after the game. He added that the team would receive an update on Monday.
Gilgeous‑Alexander was in tears when he spoke about Williams after the game.
“I just feel bad for him,” Gilgeous‑Alexander said. “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.”
Williams missed 49 games last season due to various injuries but was a key contributor to the Thunder’s 2025 title run.
Thunder guard Cason Wallace (left shoulder soreness) and forward Jaylin Williams (right wrist soreness) exited in the first quarter and did not return.
