Jaylin Williams becomes 1st Vietnamese American to reach NBA Finals

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.

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.

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.