After missing the first 18 games of the 2025/26 season, Thunder forward Kenrich Williams is set to return. Justin Martinez of The Oklahoman reports that Williams is no longer on the injury report and has been cleared to make his season debut on Wednesday against Minnesota.
Williams, who turns 31 next Tuesday, had arthroscopic surgery on his left knee just before training camp. The Thunder expected a six-to-eight-week recovery, and a little over eight weeks later he’s finally ready to play.
Now entering his fifth year in Oklahoma City, Williams’ role has dipped slightly, but he still appeared in 69 games last season, averaging 6.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists with strong shooting percentages. He also played in 16 of the Thunder’s 23 playoff games during their title run.
Williams is one of the team’s longest-tenured and oldest players, giving him a valued leadership presence. Teammate Isaiah Hartenstein said, “He’s a leader. You hear his voice through the game, throughout the practice. Just having him back is something really cool. He’s still been a force even when he wasn’t playing.”
Even with Williams returning, the Thunder won’t be fully healthy. Jalen Williams (wrist surgery) and Aaron Wiggins (adductor strain) remain out, while MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is questionable with an illness.
Despite these absences, Oklahoma City has raced to a league-best 17-1 record heading into Wednesday’s game against Minnesota.
Thunder's Kenrich Williams Cleared For Season Debut https://t.co/Ib4iE5AW9S pic.twitter.com/UjBo7su07t
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) November 26, 2025
