[Source]
Jaylin Williams, a reserve forward for the Oklahoma City Thunder, is set to make history as the first NBA player of Vietnamese descent to appear in the Finals. The Thunder secured their spot by defeating the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals on May 28.
Advertisement
Williams, 22, was drafted by Oklahoma City in 2022 and has since emerged as a key contributor off the bench. Known for his defensive versatility and leadership, he finished ninth in voting for the NBA’s 2024–25 Teammate of the Year award.
Born in Fort Smith, Arkansas, to a Vietnamese mother, Williams became the first player of Vietnamese heritage ever drafted into the NBA. He has embraced his trailblazer status and continues to serve as a visible role model for Asian American athletes.
Throughout Oklahoma City’s playoff run, Williams has earned praise not only for his on-court contributions but also for his energy and presence on the bench, drawing attention as an “elite hype man” during the conference finals.
Trending on NextShark: US plan to ‘aggressively’ revoke Chinese student visas is denounced by China
The Thunder, who posted a league-best 68–14 record this season, will face the Indiana Pacers when the NBA Finals begin on June 5.
Advertisement
This story is part of The Rebel Yellow Newsletter — a bold weekly newsletter from the creators of NextShark, reclaiming our stories and celebrating Asian American voices.
Trending on NextShark: Jaylin Williams becomes 1st Vietnamese American to reach NBA Finals
Subscribe free to join the movement. If you love what we’re building, consider becoming a paid member — your support helps us grow our team, investigate impactful stories, and uplift our community.
Trending on NextShark: BTS’ V has most-liked Instagram post of 2025
Download the NextShark App:
Want to keep up to date on Asian American News? Download the NextShark App today!