Thunder's Updated NBA Salary Cap After $822M In SGA, Williams, Holmgren Contracts

The Oklahoma City Thunder have secured long-term contracts for their core trio of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Chet Holmgren. Williams signed a five-year maximum rookie extension worth up to $287 million, following Gilgeous-Alexander's four-year, $285 million deal and Holmgren's five-year contract potentially reaching $250 million. Collectively, these extensions could total $822 million for the Thunder's "Big Three."

Before Williams' extension, the Thunder were $38.4 million over the salary cap but maintained financial flexibility with $8.6 million in first apron space and $20.4 million in second apron space. Each extension reflects the players' significant contributions: Williams achieved career highs in his third NBA season (21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, 1.6 steals) and excelled in the playoffs, averaging 23.6 points during the Finals. Gilgeous-Alexander earned regular-season MVP (32.7 points, 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds) and Finals MVP honors, while Holmgren averaged 15 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks in his second season despite playing only 32 games, showing substantial growth potential.

Despite the massive financial commitments, Oklahoma City retains roster flexibility. Projected to exceed the first and second salary aprons in 2026-27 with a $246 million payroll, the Thunder have $77 million in non-guaranteed contracts, enabling them to build around their stars with complementary talent. This ensures the championship-winning core will anchor the team's future, even as other roster changes occur.