At just 26 years old, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is already making a name for himself as one of the top players in the NBA. In his seventh season in the league, Gilgeous-Alexander, also known as SGA, led the NBA in points per game with an impressive average of 32.7 and also totaled 2,484 points. His incredible performance earned him the prestigious NBA MVP award, solidifying his place as one of the greatest players of his generation.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey to the NBA was not an easy one. Born in Toronto, Canada, he grew up playing basketball and was determined to make it to the big leagues one day. He attended Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Tennessee and played for their high school team, leading them to a state championship in 2016. His talent and skills on the court caught the attention of top college coaches, and he ultimately decided to play for the University of Kentucky.
During his time at Kentucky, SGA proved to be a standout player, impressing both fans and scouts with his versatility and ability to score in a variety of ways. In his lone season with the Wildcats, he averaged 14.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. His performance caught the eye of NBA teams, and he was selected 11th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2018 NBA Draft.
However, Gilgeous-Alexander’s time with the Hornets was short-lived. On draft night, he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he would begin his NBA career. As a rookie, he quickly made an impact and became a key player for the Clippers. He averaged 10.8 points, 3.3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game, earning NBA All-Rookie Second Team honors.
In 2020, after two successful seasons with the Clippers, Gilgeous-Alexander was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Many fans were surprised by the trade, as he had become a fan favorite in Los Angeles. However, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise for SGA and the Thunder.
In his first season with the Thunder, Gilgeous-Alexander continued to improve and solidify himself as a top player in the league. He averaged 19 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, leading the team in scoring and helping them secure a playoff spot. He also became the youngest player in NBA history to record a 20-point, 20-rebound, and 10-assist triple-double.
But it was in his third season with the Thunder that Gilgeous-Alexander truly shined. With the departure of key players like Chris Paul and Dennis Schroder, SGA was given the opportunity to lead the team, and he did not disappoint. He constantly showed his ability to take over games and make clutch plays, leading the Thunder to a surprising 22-50 record. His performance throughout the season was unmatched, and he finished the year with career-high averages of 23.7 points, 4.7 assists, and 5.9 rebounds per game.
SGA’s stellar performance did not go unnoticed, as he was named a Western Conference All-Star reserve for the first time in his career. He also became the first player in Oklahoma City Thunder history to be selected to the All-NBA Team, earning a spot on the All-NBA Third Team. And to top it all off, he was named the NBA’s Most Improved Player, a well-deserved recognition of his hard work and dedication.
In just three years in the NBA, Gilgeous-Alexander has established himself as one of the top players in the league. He has proven time and time again that he has the talent, skills, and determination to be a superstar in this league. His incredible work ethic and humble demeanor have also earned him the respect and admiration of both fans and fellow players.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey to the NBA may have been a challenging one, but he never wavered in his determination to succeed. And now, at just 26 years old, he has already achieved so much and has a bright future ahead of him. One thing is for sure, the NBA has not seen the last of SGA, and we can’t wait to see what he
