By: Marcus A. Gonzalez
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, often referred to as SGA, has emerged as one of the most electrifying guards in the NBA. Known for his smooth handles, deceptive footwork, and ability to score at will, he has cemented himself as the face of the Oklahoma City Thunder and a perennial All-Star. His journey from a promising prospect to an NBA MVP is a testament to his relentless work ethic and unique playing style.
Embed from Getty ImagesEarly Life
Born on July 12, 1998, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Gilgeous-Alexander grew up in Hamilton, where his love for basketball took root. His mother, Charmaine Gilgeous, was an Olympic sprinter, and his father, Vaughn Alexander, played basketball, making athletic excellence a family tradition. Despite early challenges, including being cut from his high school team, SGA remained determined to refine his craft.
High School
Gilgeous-Alexander began his high school career at St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School in Hamilton, a school known for producing quality athletes (mainly soccer players) around the world. He would get minimal, but quality, minutes for the school, but come the end of his freshman year, he had a brief stint at Sir Allan MacNab Secondary School before transferring to Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Tennessee. It was at Hamilton Heights that he truly blossomed, catching the attention of college scouts with his impressive court vision and scoring ability.
College
SGA committed to the University of Kentucky, where he played under legendary coach John Calipari. Initially coming off the bench, he quickly earned a starting role, averaging 14.4 points and 5.1 assists per game. His standout performance in the SEC Tournament, where he led Kentucky to victory and earned MVP honors, solidified his status as a top NBA prospect.
Draft Night
On June 21, 2018, Gilgeous-Alexander was selected 11th overall by the Charlotte Hornets, only to be traded to the Los Angeles Clippers on draft night. The Hornets didn’t know it at the time, but little did they know they would be repeated.
In that famed 1996 NBA Draft, the Charlotte Hornets had the 13th overall pick, and on draft night, they made a trade that changed the trajectory of their future forever.
They opted to trade that pick to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for an older star center in Vlade Divac.
You know who that pick turned out to be?
With the 13th pick in the 1996 Draft, the Charlotte Hornets selected Kobe Bean Bryant, from Lower Merion High School in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
And over 20 years later, they would re-invent the wheel.
The Hornets sent the future superstar to the Los Angeles Clippers in exchange for their 12th overall pick, who turned out to be Miles Bridges.
Los Angeles Clippers
His rookie season showcased his potential, as he averaged 10.8 points per game and played a crucial role in the Clippers’ playoff push.
SGA’s time with the Clippers was short but impactful. He demonstrated poise beyond his years, particularly in the 2019 NBA Playoffs, where he dropped 25 points against the Golden State Warriors. However, his tenure in Los Angeles ended when he was included in the blockbuster trade that sent Paul George to the Clippers, landing Gilgeous-Alexander in Oklahoma City.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Since joining the Thunder in 2019, Gilgeous-Alexander has evolved into a franchise cornerstone. His scoring prowess reached new heights, culminating in his 2025 MVP season, where he led the league with 32.7 points per game. Under his leadership, the Thunder have returned to championship contention, with SGA spearheading their NBA Finals run against the Indiana Pacers.
Embed from Getty ImagesConclusion
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey from an overlooked high school player to an NBA MVP is nothing short of remarkable. His ability to control the game with finesse, combined with his unwavering determination, has made him one of the most exciting players in basketball today. As he continues to elevate his game, the future of the Oklahoma City Thunder looks brighter than ever.
