© Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Phoenix Suns will face a reinforced Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday as Jalen Williams makes his season debut after undergoing wrist surgery in the offseason.
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Williams played through a torn ligament during the Thunder’s 2025 title run, according to NBA insider Shams Charania.
Mar 3, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) against Phoenix Suns guard Grayson Allen (8) at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
What does this mean for Phoenix?
Facing the defending champions just became more difficult. Williams’ defense gave the Thunder a spark throughout last season, and his ability to attack the paint and defend multiple positions makes him a challenging matchup for any opponent.
Williams averaged 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds and 5.1 assists for the Thunder during the 2024-25 season.
Nov 15, 2024; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) blocks a shot by Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) during the first quarter at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
The Suns are coming off a commanding win over the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, remaining undefeated in the NBA Emirates Cup. But staying unbeaten against Oklahoma City will be a tall task. Despite missing key players at various points this season, Phoenix has continued to string together wins.
The Suns are 12–7, including key victories over the San Antonio Spurs and Minnesota Timberwolves during their recent stretch. Phoenix has shown the capability to rise to the level of elite opponents, even as the Thunder regain one of their top contributors.
Apr 9, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams (8) against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Suns and Thunder face off Friday, Nov. 28, at 7:30 p.m.
Just in: Thunder All-NBA guard Jalen Williams is off the injury report and will make his season debut against the Phoenix Suns on Friday night in OKC, multiple sources tell ESPN. Williams recovered from wrist surgery after playing through a torn ligament in the 2025 title run. pic.twitter.com/4emDduKKzY
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 27, 2025
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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