If anybody can accurately read the pulse of the fanbase, it’s Jalen Williams. Out of everybody on the Oklahoma City Thunder, he’s embraced the relationship the most. Not to say others have alienated themselves from their supporters, but the 24-year-old has gone out of his way to be relatable.
Ahead of a 2025 NBA Finals Game 7 against the Indiana Pacers, Williams expects the best home crowd he’s ever experienced. There’s been a Jekyll and Hyde situation throughout the playoffs for the Thunder. At home, they look like a dominant win machine that’s blown teams out. On the road, they look vulnerable as their offense gets ugly.
The Thunder hope they can continue their home success one last time. The OKC home crowd should provide them a boost of adrenaline before the game even tips off.
“It makes the hair on your arms stand up a little bit. You’re anxious going into it. Honestly, it’s a little indescribable. It’s hard to give a good answer because this Game 7 is going to be completely different from the last one we played in,” Williams said. “But from a fan perspective, I can’t imagine it won’t be anything short of incredibly loud.”
You can say that again. A decisive Game 5 to go up 3-2 in the NBA Finals likely led to plenty of headaches. Now multiply that by tenfold with a championship on the line in the biggest game in Thunder history. Everybody in OKC will be on pins and needles until Sunday night.
“Obviously, they are going to be anxious, too. We are very close to finishing the job, but very close doesn’t get you far unless you finish it. I’m excited to see how much the city shows out,” WIlliams said. “Probably have a different energy than it’s ever had. I’m excited for that.”