**Sam Presti Showed a Lot of Love to His Non-Star Big Men**
Sam Presti, the architect of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s resurgence, has always been a general manager who values culture as much as talent. While the spotlight often shines on superstars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren, Presti recently took a moment to highlight the contributions of two unsung heroes in the Thunder’s frontcourt: Jaylin Williams and Isaiah Hartenstein.
Last November, when Chet Holmgren went down with an injury, the Thunder’s season could have easily derailed. Instead, it became a defining moment for the team’s chemistry—one that Presti believes was instrumental in their eventual championship run.
*”Hart and J-Will stayed with [Chet] the whole time in the back, and it was uncomfortable. It was uncomfortable because when someone is in that much pain, it’s hard to be a bystander,”* Presti recalled.
That moment encapsulated what made the Thunder special last season. It wasn’t just about the dazzling plays or the stat-stuffing performances—it was about the intangible bonds between teammates. Williams and Hartenstein, neither of whom are household names, played crucial roles in stabilizing the team when their star rookie was sidelined. Their willingness to step up, both on and off the court, set the tone for Oklahoma City’s resilience.
### **The Value of a Terrific Supporting Cast**
In today’s NBA, where superteams and superstar-driven narratives dominate, the Thunder’s success was a refreshing reminder that basketball is still a team sport. While Gilgeous-Alexander emerged as an MVP candidate and Holmgren as a Rookie of the Year frontrunner, the Thunder’s depth was their true strength.
Williams, a second-round pick in 2022, quickly became a fan favorite for his hustle, basketball IQ, and willingness to do the dirty work. His ability to stretch the floor as a big man, set solid screens, and defend multiple positions made him an invaluable piece in head coach Mark Daigneault’s system. Meanwhile, Hartenstein, acquired in a savvy trade, provided veteran stability, rim protection, and underrated playmaking from the center position.
Neither player was a primary scoring option, but their impact went beyond the box score. They were the glue guys—the ones who made the extra pass, took the charge, and kept the locker room united. In a league where egos often clash, the Thunder’s culture of selflessness was a breath of fresh air.
### **A+ Teammates, Championship Results**
Presti’s praise for Williams and Hartenstein wasn’t just lip service—it was a recognition of how championship teams are built. The best organizations don’t just collect talent; they cultivate character. When Holmgren went down, the Thunder didn’t panic. Instead, their depth and camaraderie allowed them to weather the storm.
That chemistry translated onto the court. The Thunder played with a cohesion that few teams could match, moving the ball with purpose, defending with intensity, and trusting each other in clutch moments. By the time the playoffs arrived, they weren’t just a young, exciting team—they were a legitimate title contender.
And when the confetti fell in June, it wasn’t just a victory for the stars. It was a validation of every player who embraced their role, every coach who believed in the system, and every executive who prioritized culture.
### **More Banners on the Horizon?**
With the Thunder’s core locked in and Presti’s masterful roster construction, last season’s championship might not be a one-off. Oklahoma City is positioned for sustained success, with a mix of youth, versatility, and financial flexibility that most franchises can only dream of.
Gilgeous-Alexander is in his prime, Holmgren is only scratching the surface of his potential, and role players like Williams and Hartenstein continue to elevate the team in ways that don’t always show up in headlines. Add in Presti’s treasure trove of future draft picks, and the Thunder have the assets to remain contenders for years to come.
The foundation has been set. The culture has been established. And if the Thunder continue to prioritize selflessness and teamwork, Paycom Center’s rafters may soon hold more than just one banner.
### **The Bigger Lesson for the NBA**
In an era where player movement and superteams dominate discussions, the Thunder’s success serves as a blueprint for sustainable team-building. Presti’s emphasis on drafting high-character players, developing them within a system, and fostering genuine camaraderie is a reminder that basketball is about more than just star power.
Williams and Hartenstein may never be All-Stars, but their contributions were vital to Oklahoma City’s championship run. And in a league that often overlooks the importance of role players, Presti’s public appreciation for them sends a powerful message: **great teams are built on great teammates.**
As the Thunder look toward the future, their past season will be remembered not just for the title, but for the way they won it—together. And if they keep that same energy, the rest of the NBA should be on notice. The Thunder aren’t going anywhere.
