News Article
Published
Oct 26, 2026 at 10:23 AM EDT
The Oklahoma City Thunder improved to 3-0.
But their victory came at a high emotional cost. Jalen Williams suffered a serious lower-leg injury late in the fourth quarter, leaving teammates visibly shaken.
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Williams went down with 1:14 remaining against the Los Angeles Clippers after contact during a drive to the basket. He was eventually taken off on a stretcher, giving the crowd two thumbs up as fans chanted his nickname.
Head coach Mark Daigneault admitted the team was struggling to process what had happened.
“We’re not doing great. That’s tough on the guys. Everyone empathizes. I think both teams in those situations. Not doing great,” Daigneault said.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander struggled to hide his emotions while discussing his teammate after the game, as per NBA.com:
“I just feel bad for him. Nothing more than that,” the Thunder star said.
However, Gilgeous-Alexander also expressed confidence in Williams' ability to overcome another setback.
“He just loves playing, loves the competition. That’s who he is. I have no doubt in my mind he’ll be back and be better than he was before,” he said. “He’s a warrior.”
Alex Caruso also reflected on how difficult the moment was for Williams, who has already battled injuries throughout his career.
“There’s no getting around feeling bad for Dub, feeling sorry for him,” Caruso said, per the OKC Thunder Wire. “That’s your teammate. That’s been through all the things that he’s been through and the adversity he’s been through to work and get back. It stings.”
The Thunder have not announced an official diagnosis or recovery timeline. For now, the team is focused on supporting Williams while preparing to move forward without one of its most important players.