Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Shines Bright in Oklahoma City
At the age of 26, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stands as a pillar for the Oklahoma City Thunder, not just as a player but as a cherished veteran. Interestingly, despite being younger in years, Alex Caruso and Kenrich Williams, both 30, have spent more cumulative time on the court. Shai, however, has quickly carved out his niche as a formidable talent, drawing significant attention in the NBA's MVP conversation.
Gilgeous-Alexander's journey to the top tiers of the NBA has been nothing short of remarkable. Last year, his stellar performance earned him a starting spot in the NBA All-Star Game, and many predict he’ll secure a spot on the All-NBA First Team for the third year running if he continues this path of excellence. In a league where consistency is king, Shai is proving he’s more than up to the challenge.
Commitment to the Thunder and Beyond
Shai’s relationship with Oklahoma City transcends the typical player-team dynamic. Having signed a five-year extension with the Thunder, he has spoken passionately about his commitment to the team and the city. "I love Oklahoma City. I can't see a world where I'm not in OKC," Shai confidently stated. His words echo a deep sense of belonging and satisfaction with where he stands, both geographically and professionally. "Market, no market. I don't care. I love where I am," he added, underscoring his dedication beyond financial gains or market size.
This firm commitment is poised to pay off in the long run. Shai is eligible for a four-year supermax extension starting in 2027, potentially stretching through the 2030-31 season, with projections hinting at an $81.4 million payday in its final year. It seems his future, both in terms of career stability and financial security, is set in bright, bold strokes.
Building a Future One Day at a Time
Surrounded by a promising team, including young talents like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, aged 22 and 23 respectively, the Thunder’s lineup is shaping up for something special. With the guidance and veteran presence of someone like Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder are poised to improve upon their 2022 season record of 24-58. "I know what I signed up for when I signed a five-year extension, and I don't think we're going to be losing for much longer," Shai shared, reinforcing his belief in the team's potential.
His enthusiasm is infectious, as he states, "I go to work every day with a smile on my face. The money doesn't matter, to a certain extent. As long as I enjoy what I'm doing at a very high level, love the people that I'm around doing it, market doesn't matter to me." For Shai, success seems to be about much more than just victories on the scoreboard; it's about creating a life and a career that fulfills him deeply. "I believe in this team," he declares, and for Oklahoma City, having someone of Gilgeous-Alexander’s caliber and mindset is invaluable as they continue their ascent in the competitive world of the NBA.