If you’ve been watching the 2025 NBA Playoffs, one name has echoed across arenas, highlight reels, and social media feeds: Jalen “JDub” Williams. The Oklahoma City Thunder’s electric forward has not just taken a leap — he’s soared into superstardom. His breakout postseason run has been nothing short of spectacular, filled with jaw-dropping plays, clutch performances, and pure basketball brilliance. Now, as the Thunder prepare for their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, it’s the perfect time to revisit JDub’s best moments from this unforgettable playoff run.
Let’s break down the most unforgettable plays from Jalen Williams during the 2025 postseason — the buckets, the blocks, the hustle, and the heart — that helped push OKC to the grandest stage in basketball.
1. The Poster Dunk Heard Around the League (First Round, Game 3 vs. Clippers)
It was late in the fourth quarter, game tied, and momentum hanging in the balance. Jalen Williams got the ball on the wing, took two explosive dribbles, and rose up over Ivica Zubac for a thunderous slam that brought the Paycom Center to its feet and left the internet in shambles. The dunk wasn’t just emphatic — it was a statement. JDub was here, and he was fearless. The Thunder went on to win that game and take control of the series.
2. The Chase-Down Block That Shifted the Tide (First Round, Game 5)
The Clippers had a fast break opportunity, with Terance Mann sprinting ahead for what looked like an easy layup. Out of nowhere, Williams came flying in with a LeBron-esque chase-down block, pinning the ball against the glass. Not only did it energize his teammates and the home crowd, but it also led to a fast-break three from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the other end. That five-point swing proved crucial in a tight game that OKC eventually won.
3. 30-Piece Masterclass (Semifinals, Game 6 vs. Timberwolves)
With the Thunder up 3–2 in the series and looking to close out the Wolves on the road, JDub delivered his most efficient scoring performance of the playoffs. He poured in 30 points on 12-of-16 shooting, hitting tough mid-range jumpers, aggressive drives to the rim, and even draining a couple of corner threes. It was the kind of all-around scoring clinic that showcased his evolution as a three-level threat. He didn’t just score — he controlled the tempo, made the right reads, and delivered like a seasoned vet.
4. The Game-Winner to Seal the West (Western Conference Finals, Game 4 vs. Mavericks)
With OKC up 3–0 against Luka Dončić and the Dallas Mavericks, the Thunder had a chance to sweep and punch their ticket to the NBA Finals. In the final seconds of a tie game, JDub took the inbound, isolated on the wing, and calmly sank a contested step-back jumper at the buzzer. It was ice-cold. As his teammates mobbed him at center court, the message was clear: this is JDub’s moment — and he’s ready for more.
5. Lockdown Defense All Series Long
While his offensive highlights grab the headlines, JDub’s defense has been equally impactful. He’s guarded All-Stars like Anthony Edwards, Kawhi Leonard, and Kyrie Irving throughout the postseason, and made life miserable for them with his length, lateral quickness, and tenacity. Whether it was picking pockets in crunch time or rotating to block a shot at the rim, Williams brought intensity on both ends of the floor, showing he’s a true two-way force.
More Than Just Highlights: Leadership and Poise
What makes JDub’s postseason even more impressive isn’t just the highlight plays — it’s the consistency and composure. Still only in his third NBA season, Williams has played with the maturity of a 10-year vet. When OKC faced adversity — whether down double digits or battling through late-game pressure — it was often JDub who settled the team, made smart decisions, and ignited momentum-shifting runs.
His chemistry with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren has formed the nucleus of one of the league’s most promising young cores. And with head coach Mark Daigneault trusting him in the biggest moments, JDub has rewarded that faith with big-time performances every step of the way.
The Journey to the NBA Finals
The Thunder’s path to the 2025 NBA Finals wasn’t easy. They took down a veteran-laden Clippers team, outlasted the red-hot Timberwolves, and then swept the Mavericks — all behind balanced team play and star-level performances from Williams. What was once viewed as a rebuilding team is now a legitimate title contender, and JDub is one of the biggest reasons why.
With Game 1 of the #NBAFinals tipping off Thursday, June 5 at 8:30 PM ET on ABC, all eyes will be on how JDub performs under the brightest lights. If the postseason so far is any indication, expect more fireworks.
Don’t Miss a Moment
Be sure to catch every moment from Jalen Williams and the Oklahoma City Thunder as they chase history. The #NBAFinals presented by @youtubetv start Thursday, June 5 at 8:30pm ET on ABC. Whether it’s a clutch three, a highlight dunk, or a lockdown defensive play, you won’t want to miss JDub’s next masterpiece.
This is his time. This is OKC’s time. Let the Finals begin.
