Jalen Williams has gone from a little-known college player to an NBA star in just three years – and his meteoric rise has allowed him to do something truly special: retire his parents.
The 24-year-old Thunder standout spoke with TMZ Sports at LAX about his whirlwind journey, admitting it’s still hard to process everything – from his All-Star season and NBA championship to his massive $287 million contract extension.
“It’s surreal,” Williams said. “My life is completely different now.”
Williams averaged 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists during the 2024-25 season and played a key role in OKC’s Finals win over the Pacers.
But his proudest moment? Giving back to his parents, Ronald and Nicole, both veterans of the U.S. Air Force.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to retire my parents,” he said.
With his younger brother Cody now in the NBA with the Utah Jazz, Jalen says he’s been focused on supporting him too – and promises to take it all in once the dust settles.
And when that big paycheck clears? He’s got a few ideas on how he might celebrate.
NBA Star Jalen Williams Says He Retired His Parents, Opens Up on $287 Million Extension | Click to read more 👇 https://t.co/XFbAqzbx26
— TMZ Sports (@TMZ_Sports) July 16, 2025
