Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the hottest thing going in the NBA right now. Most recently, he guided the Oklahoma City Thunder to the ultimate win on the court—taking them all the way to the league championship and winning it all! The 25-year-old point guard put on a transcendent show last season. He put up 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game over a 76-game season. His brilliance this season made him the Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the first time in his career. He is in position to do so again this season. All because so far, he’s averaging a stupid 32.8 points, 6.4 assists, and 4.7 rebounds in a 23 game sample size.
Gilgeous-Alexander had just scored 38 points against the Golden State Warriors in a big win the night before. This outing proved his supreme shotmaking ability and creation talent. Following the game, he showed off his mischievous side. As he shoveled orange chicken and chow mein into his takeout box, the epic dance between his work hard, play hard mantra continues to impress.
Gilgeous-Alexander spoke about his experience winning a gold medal. He acknowledged that it would take a while for the success of his accomplishments to really set in.
“I was telling my wife that for the longest time that it didn’t feel real,” – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
He likened his experience to watching basketball legends like Kobe Bryant, expressing disbelief at being in a position to win a championship himself.
“Just like growing up watching Kobe [Bryant] win rings and all these guys win rings, it didn’t feel (real). I guess it was just crazy to me to wrap my head around the fact that I was in that same position and won the championship.” – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Preventing hubris He’s said he doesn’t think his talent entitles him to be cocky.
“I’ve just never had that temperament about me. Never. I just don’t ever think I’m better than anybody because I put the ball in the basket.” – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Mark Daignault, the Thunder’s head coach, highlighted the evolution of Gilgeous-Alexander’s game. For all the good things still evident in Gilgeous-Alexander’s game, he’s made a leap as a playmaker this year, Gill added.
“He is always evolving. He’s changed over time. But the bones of that guy are the exact same.” – Mark Daignault
Lu Dort, a fellow member of the Thunder with Gilgeous-Alexander, praised his calm demeanor on and off the floor. Of course, through all of it, he remains humble.
“Everything happens so fast that I wonder if he realizes how much attention he is getting with all that he is accomplishing around the court now.” – Lu Dort
Yet Gilgeous-Alexander’s desire for growth goes deeper than personal accolades. One of his goals is to continue developing a culture of cooperation and flexibility amongst the Thunder.
“Every game in the NBA is going to look different every night,” – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
He acknowledges that learning to adapt to various challenges is essential for team success.
“And I think it’s a skill that you have to learn and develop as a team to just roll with the punches.” – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Gilgeous-Alexander’s commitment to improvement as a player has been evident this season as he continues to excel in playmaking roles. His performance is a testament to his personal ambition and a desire for his teammates to succeed as well.
In addition to his NBA achievements, Gilgeous-Alexander represented Canada in the 2024 Paris Olympics, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in basketball. His ability to perform at the highest level in both club and international football speaks volumes about his diverse skillset and zeal for the game.
With Gilgeous-Alexander at the helm, the Oklahoma City Thunder have blossomed on court. This was on full display in their last game against the Utah Jazz, as they cruised to a 131-101 blowout win – their 15th straight victory.
Gilgeous-Alexander recently signed an $285 million extension. This deal serves as proof of his immense value to the team and serves as a precursor for his future ascension towards success.
As Shai Gilgeous-Alexander embarks on his biggest journey yet in the professional ranks, he still intends to stay focused on the personal- or team-specific development goals at hand. He desires to be recognized not only as one of basketball’s greats but as an approachable teammate who fosters camaraderie and growth among his peers.
“I felt like this group of guys are very motivated, young,” – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
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