The Thunder’s Championship Big Three Is Here to Stay: OKC Commits to Core in Pursuit of NBA Glory…read more…
The Oklahoma City Thunder have sent a clear and thunderous message to the NBA: they’re not just building for the future — their time is now. With massive contract commitments, a cohesive team culture, and three franchise cornerstones locked in for the long haul, the Thunder’s championship “Big Three” of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren is here to stay.
After years of meticulous rebuilding through draft capital, savvy trades, and development under GM Sam Presti’s vision, the Thunder have transitioned from potential-packed underdogs to legitimate contenders. The decision to lock in their three foundational stars signals the start of a new era in Oklahoma City — one filled with heightened expectations, championship aspirations, and sustained excellence.
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A Homegrown Trio Built on Trust and Talent
What makes Oklahoma City’s trio so special isn’t just their individual skills — it’s the way they complement each other. Gilgeous-Alexander, an MVP finalist this past season, has blossomed into one of the league’s premier guards. Known for his unique rhythm, midrange mastery, and clutch gene, he averaged 30.1 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.5 rebounds while leading OKC to a 57-win season and the No. 1 seed in the West.
Alongside him, Jalen Williams — the 12th overall pick in 2022 — has emerged as the ultimate two-way glue guy. Williams averaged 19.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.6 assists in 2024–25, showing elite defensive versatility and poise beyond his years. He’s the kind of player championship teams crave: selfless, tough, and efficient.
Then there’s Chet Holmgren, the former No. 2 overall pick who finally showcased his talent after missing his rookie season due to injury. At 7’1” with guard-like agility, Holmgren proved to be the linchpin on defense and a unique offensive weapon. His shot-blocking, three-point range, and playmaking at the 5 position have been central to OKC’s dynamic schemes.
Together, these three have formed a young, unselfish, and fearless nucleus — one capable of dominating both ends of the floor.
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Massive Contracts Reflect Thunder’s Commitment
The Thunder’s long-term vision became crystal clear this offseason when they committed nearly $475 million combined to Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams, and Holmgren.
Gilgeous-Alexander is already under contract through 2027 with a supermax extension projected to kick in shortly after. His status as the face of the franchise has never been in doubt.
Williams recently inked a five-year, $150 million extension, ensuring his presence well into the 2030s. Though he could’ve waited for a potential higher payday, Williams made it clear — winning with this core mattered more than chasing every last dollar.
Holmgren, meanwhile, is reportedly nearing a rookie max extension of roughly $210 million over five years, which will begin after the 2025–26 season. Sources say talks progressed swiftly, with both sides eager to finalize the deal.
Locking up all three means the Thunder have bypassed the uncertain waters of free agency and have solidified a championship-caliber foundation.
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Built to Contend — and Built to Last
Beyond their star trio, the Thunder possess what most contenders crave: depth, youth, and continuity. Head coach Mark Daigneault, a Coach of the Year winner in 2024, has been lauded for creating an adaptable system that empowers players while emphasizing defense, movement, and ball-sharing.
OKC also boasts one of the best supporting casts in the league. Josh Giddey, despite a polarizing 2024–25 campaign, remains a versatile playmaker. Rookie forward Nikola Topić, acquired from the 2024 draft via a high-value trade, has impressed early. Add in key role players like Isaiah Joe, Luguentz Dort, and Cason Wallace, and the Thunder’s rotation is deep and dangerous.
What makes them even more formidable is their war chest of future draft picks — more than 12 first-rounders over the next five years — giving them flexibility to pursue a blockbuster trade if needed.
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A Culture Rooted in Patience and Progress
In an era where NBA stars often leap from team to team, Oklahoma City’s approach is a refreshing throwback. This is a franchise that values player development, chemistry, and long-term investment over quick fixes.
Gilgeous-Alexander often speaks about the culture in OKC as “family-oriented” and “team-first.” Holmgren, too, praised the environment: “Here, they care about more than just what you can do on the court. They develop you as a person.”
This culture, fostered by Sam Presti and Daigneault, has built trust among the players — a vital reason why Williams and Holmgren had no hesitation in committing long-term.
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Thunder Rolling Into 2025–26
Coming off a season in which they reached the Western Conference Finals before falling to the eventual champion Denver Nuggets, the Thunder enter the 2025–26 season with more experience and even loftier goals.
Vegas oddsmakers already list OKC as one of the top three favorites to win the title, alongside the Celtics and Nuggets. With a motivated core, a visionary front office, and a strategic coaching staff, the Thunder are poised to make their deepest playoff run since the Kevin Durant-Russell Westbrook era.
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The Message Is Clear
Oklahoma City is no longer “on the rise” — they’ve arrived.
By securing their Big Three, the Thunder have transformed potential into power. In a Western Conference loaded with talent, their ability to maintain cohesion while others reshuffle the deck could be the difference-maker.
For Thunder fans, it’s a dream finally realized: their stars are locked in, their team is elite, and the championship window is wide open.
The Thunder’s Big Three is here to stay — and the NBA better take notice.
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Social Caption (Optional):
⚡ Locked in and loaded! The Thunder commit nearly half a billion to their championship core — Shai, J-Dub & Chet. The dynasty might just be beginning. #ThunderUp #NBA
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