Jaylin Williams Becomes Last NBA Player Wearing Retired No.6 Jersey

The NBA retired the No. 6 jersey league-wide in 2022 to honor the late Bill Russell, an 11-time NBA champion and five-time MVP, ensuring no new players could wear the number. Jaylin Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder is now the last player in the NBA to wear No. 6, a number his father originally selected for him before the retirement announcement. Williams, entering his fourth season, has developed into a vital role player known for his selflessness, defensive capabilities, and locker room leadership, and recently signed a three-year contract extension with the Thunder. He expressed pride and honor in carrying the legacy of Bill Russell by wearing the number, recognizing the symbolism it holds. With players like DeAndre Jordan no longer wearing No. 6, Williams uniquely carries this historic jersey into the 2025-26 season. His role as a key bench piece and occasional starter underscores his growing importance to the team while linking him forever to the legacy of Bill Russell.