Sports
Jalen Williams leaves Thunder-Clippers win on stretcher after awkward landing
The Oklahoma City forward injured his lower left leg while attempting a dunk late Sunday and was carried off the court as fans cheered. The Thunder said he would miss Monday’s game against Phoenix, with general manager Sam Presti expected to provide an update.
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams was stretchered off the court after injuring his lower left leg late in the team’s 108-101 win over the Los Angeles Clippers on Sunday night at Paycom Center.
With 1 minute, 15 seconds left in the fourth quarter, Williams went up for a dunk and was fouled by Clippers guard Kris Dunn, who was assessed a Flagrant 1. Williams landed awkwardly and needed help from medical staff. As he was carried off, he raised both thumbs toward the crowd. Fans stood and chanted his nickname, “J Dub.”
The Thunder listed Williams as out for Monday’s home game against the Phoenix Suns because of the lower-leg injury. The team did not provide a further diagnosis in the available update. General manager Sam Presti was scheduled to speak with reporters at 5 p.m. Monday, with an update on Williams expected.
Oklahoma City improved to 3-0 with Sunday’s victory. Williams, 25, is an All-NBA forward and a key part of the Thunder’s lineup, making his absence a significant concern for the defending title contender. Teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander praised Williams’ toughness, saying, “He’s a warrior.” Guard Alex Caruso also voiced confidence that Williams would face the setback head-on.
The Thunder were scheduled to host Phoenix at 7 p.m. Monday at Paycom Center. Williams was among several Oklahoma City players listed out, alongside Chet Holmgren, Cason Wallace, Nikola Topic and Thomas Sorber.