Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was born on July 12, 1998, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He grew up in Hamilton, Ontario, and attended St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School. Gilgeous-Alexander's basketball journey began at a young age, and he developed his skills through high school and AAU basketball, eventually becoming a top recruit.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander committed to playing college basketball for the University of Kentucky under the coaching of John Calipari. He joined the Wildcats for the 2017-2018 season. At Kentucky, he quickly made a name for himself as a versatile guard, showcasing his ability to score and facilitate for his teammates, which boosted his prospects for entering the NBA.

On June 21, 2018, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was selected with the 11th overall pick by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2018 NBA Draft. However, he was traded shortly thereafter to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he began his professional career. His draft night deal marked the beginning of his NBA journey, and he quickly impressed with his skill set.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made his NBA debut on October 17, 2018, playing for the Los Angeles Clippers. In his first game, he came off the bench and showcased his potential by scoring a decent number of points and contributing to the team's overall performance. This debut marked the start of his promising career in the NBA.

On July 10, 2019, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder as part of a blockbuster trade deal. The trade sent Paul George to the Clippers in exchange for Gilgeous-Alexander, multiple draft picks, and other players. This trade was a turning point for Shai, as he took on a more prominent role with the Thunder.

In the 2020-2021 NBA season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander emerged as a star for the Oklahoma City Thunder. He improved his statistics significantly, averaging career highs in points, assists, and rebounds, solidifying his status as one of the league’s most promising young talents. His performance drew praise from analysts and fans alike, and he became the focal point of the Thunder's rebuilding efforts.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander received his first All-NBA selection at the end of the 2022 NBA season. This accolade recognized his outstanding performance and contributions to his team, highlighting his growth and development as a player. Being named to an All-NBA team is a significant milestone for any player, and it marked Shai's entrance into the elite ranks of the league.

On January 11, 2023, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a career-high 50 points in a game against a fierce opponent. This outstanding performance not only set a personal best for Shai but also showcased his scoring ability and leadership on the court. His 50-point game was a testament to his growth and capability as one of the league's premier guards.

During the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander played a leading role for the Canadian national team. His experience and skills were pivotal in guiding the team through the tournament. Shai's contributions were noted for his scoring, playmaking, and defensive efforts, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier international player.