The NBA unveiled its 2025 All-NBA teams on Friday, May 23, spotlighting several expected names but also stirring debate with the inclusion of Oklahoma City Thunder’s Jalen Williams on the All-NBA Third Team. Williams’ selection sparked immediate reactions online as fans voiced confusion and frustration over what many consider a questionable pick.
While Williams posted an impressive season and emerged as a key contributor for the Thunder, the decision to award him an All-NBA spot left a significant portion of fans unconvinced, igniting widespread social media backlash.
Strong Season Metrics and Team Contributions Behind Williams’ Recognition
Jalen Williams delivered a breakout campaign in his third NBA season, averaging 21.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, 5.1 assists, and a career-best 1.61 steals per game across 69 contests. His defensive versatility allowed him to cover multiple positions effectively, especially stepping up during moments when Oklahoma City’s frontcourt players were sidelined by injuries.
Playing as the Thunder’s second option behind league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Williams was instrumental in Oklahoma City finishing with an NBA-best 68-14 record. His two-way impact also earned him a spot on the All-Defensive Team alongside teammate Lu Dort.
Fan Discontent Surfaces Amid Comparisons and Accusations of Bias
Despite Williams’ credentials, many fans questioned whether his selection was deserved compared to other players with arguably stronger cases. Social media quickly filled with reactions expressing disbelief. One user exclaimed,
“DOES THAT SAY JDUB ALL NBA LMFAOOOOOOO,”
highlighting the shock that accompanied the announcement.
Critics pointed toward players such as Darius Garland, Ivica Zubac, and Jaren Jackson Jr., who were argued to have more convincing statistics or overall impact.
“Garland, Zubac, and JJJ were all much more deserving of that spot than Jalen Williams man,”
wrote one fan, referencing Garland’s 20.6 points per game over 75 games and Jaren Jackson Jr.’s higher shooting efficiency at 48.8 percent field goal percentage.
Some fans did not hold back in their frustration:
“How tf is Jalen Williams in all NBA this shits so rigged man,”
expressed another, while others reacted with laughter and disbelief, questioning how Williams earned this recognition at all.
Williams’ All-NBA Point Total and Historical Team Context
The voting panel included 100 members, and Williams received a total of 73 points, with four votes placing him on the second team and 61 on the third team. This marks Williams’ first All-NBA honor, making him one of two Thunder players recognized this season alongside Gilgeous-Alexander. It is also Oklahoma City’s first time fielding multiple All-NBA picks since 2019, when Paul George and Russell Westbrook were both honored.
For many observers, however, this achievement feels somewhat premature or contentious, as they believe other candidates were overlooked unfairly. Despite this, Williams’ role was integral to a Thunder squad that led the league in point differential at +12.9 and ranked among the top five teams in both offense and defense.
Analyzing the Significance of Williams’ Inclusion on the All-NBA Third Team
Jalen Williams’ rise to a reliable, two-way second star is a notable accomplishment for a young player, especially contributing to a team that has dramatically improved its standing in the league. His selection cements his status as an important piece of Oklahoma City’s success this season.
Nevertheless, the controversy surrounding his All-NBA Third Team spot highlights ongoing debates in the NBA about how voters evaluate performance, impact, and value. Whether Williams’ inclusion will prove accepted over time or continue to draw criticism remains to be seen as the league progresses toward next season.