Jaylin Williams is an American professional basketball player who plays for the OKC Thunder as a center/power forward. He was drafted by the Thunder with the 34th overall in 2022.
Williams' basketball journey began at the Northside High School in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where he played alongside current OKC teammate Isaiah Joe. As a highly touted prospect, Williams earned accolades including Gatorade Player of the Year and Mr. Basketball of Arkansas in 2020.
After high school, Williams played college basketball at Arkansas from 2020 to 2022 where he developed into a two-way forward, capable of guarding all five positions on the court. His tenacity on the court was evident as he led the NCAA Division I with an impressive 54 charges drawn and set a program single-season rebounding record with 364 rebounds during the 2021/22 season.
For the OKC Thunder, Williams plays off the bench behind Chet Holmgren, and primarily operates as a stretch four or five. During the 2023/24 season, Williams averaged 4.0 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game. Jaylin Williams holds the distinction of being the first player of Vietnamese descent to grace the NBA.
Who are Jaylin Williams’ parents?
Jaylin Williams’ parents are Michael and Linda Williams. He has three older brothers Mikey, Marquis, and Montell, as well as a sister Synora Phillips.
Who is Jaylin Williams’ mother?
Linda Williams is Jaylin Williams’ mother. She has a unique background as she hails from Saigon, now known as Ho Chi Minh City. Linda and her mother Nga relocated to the United States in 1975 following the Vietnam War.
Currently, Jaylin's mother and grandmother reside in Springdale, Arkansas, situated just outside Fayetteville. This location holds significance as Jaylin played two seasons for the Razorbacks at the University of Arkansas. Additionally, Springdale is approximately 70 miles north of Fort Smith, where Jaylin spent his formative years and attended high school.
Who is Jaylin Williams’ Father?
Michael Williams is Jaylin Williams' father. He was a basketball player himself, and played at Northside High School in Fort Smith, Arkansas, the same alma mater where Jaylin would later make his mark on the court. Michael's own experiences and passion for the game laid the foundation for Jaylin's development as a basketball player.
FAQ's On Jaylin Williams Parents
A. Jaylin Williams’ parents are Michael and Linda Williams.
A. Linda Williams is the mother of Jaylin Williams. She is of Vietnamese descent, making her son Jaylin the first player of Vietnamese descent to play in the NBA.
A. Jaylin Williams made $2,000,000 during the 2023/24 NBA season.
A. The OKC Thunder drafted Jaylin Williams with 34th overall pick in the 2022 NBA Draft.
A. Jaylin Williams comes from a mixed heritage. His mother is of Vietnamese descent, while father is African-American.
A. Jaylin Williams plays as a center.