Harden Praises Williams After Thunder Win
James Harden posted a tribute to Jalen Williams on Instagram after Oklahoma City's 124-116 victory over the Cavaliers.
Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Basketball
Harden shared a photo of himself wearing Williams' player-exclusive basketball shoes after the Thunder beat the Cavaliers 124-116 on Wednesday night. Williams reposted the message to his Instagram story.
Why it matters
The exchange highlights the connection between Harden, the former Thunder guard, and Williams, the current Oklahoma City standout, both of whom are Adidas athletes. It also draws attention to Williams' upcoming signature shoe, which he has confirmed is in development.
Harden recorded 19 points, nine rebounds and six assists in the 124-116 Thunder win over Cleveland. Williams was unavailable for the matchup, and no release timeline has been set for his signature shoe.
The players
James Harden
Harden is a veteran guard who was drafted third overall by Oklahoma City in 2009 and spent his first three NBA seasons with the Thunder before being traded to Houston in 2012.
Jalen Williams
Williams is a Thunder guard and Adidas athlete who has confirmed that his own signature shoe model is in development.
The details
Harden wrote a message on Instagram accompanying a photo of himself wearing Williams' player-exclusive shoes. Williams responded by reposting the message to his Instagram story with the caption "shoutout Uno man !!!"
Timeline
2009: Oklahoma City drafted Harden third overall.
2012: Harden was traded from Oklahoma City to Houston.
March 2026: Adidas released a promotional video featuring Harden and Williams teasing Williams' signature shoe.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026: The Thunder beat the Cavaliers 124-116 and Harden posted his tribute.
Season Trajectory
Harden's 2012 trade to Houston ended his three seasons as a Thunder player, and his public praise now links him to the franchise's next generation of talent. The tribute comes as Oklahoma City continues to build around Williams, a rising guard whose signature shoe signals a growing profile in the league.
Fantasy managers tracking Williams should note his unavailability for the Cavaliers game, which affects the Thunder's rotation. Williams' Adidas signature shoe, still in development, may become available to fans once it is released.
The takeaway
Player-to-player support on social media can quietly preview future product launches. Fans following Williams should watch for updates on his signature shoe as the Adidas project develops.
Further reading
Explore more in Basketball coverage from the Oklahoma City area.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Heavy.
