Prolific Thunder Player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Likely went Unnoticed as MVP Contender
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's rise to MVP glory has left many questioning if they truly saw it coming. In the 2019-20 season, CP3, future HoF point guard and then-Oklahoma City Thunder teammate, did, though. That's the year CP3 forged an unbreakable bond with SGA, the Thunder's current point guard who would later claim the 2025 MVP trophy.
Despite a massive age gap, the duo bonded over shared passion for basketball. Late nights after practice were spent duking it out in shooting contests, and road trips transformed into film sessions analyzing upcoming opponents.
"I knew he had MVP potential that year," CP3 told NBC News. "I was in awe of his passion for the game and the work he put into it."
Gilgeous-Alexander, a 2018 11th overall pick, didn't have a traditional ascension to stardom. He was traded after his rookie season and his Thunder teams didn't make the playoffs from 2021 to 2023. And yet, those who've vibed with him, Ludo Dort for one, aren't surprised.
"I knew he was going to shine one day," Dort shares. "The way he worked tirelessly on his craft, it was just a matter of time before he shone."
Cason Wallace agrees, noticing Gilgeous-Alexander's consistent routine. "The dude has a routine, and he's consistent with it. It's the real deal."
Gilgeous-Alexander's journey has been marked by consistency, with a knack for averaging at least 30 points per game for the last three seasons, shooting over 50% from the field in four out of the past five years, and always putting up stellar defensive numbers. Could it be that team success simply couldn't keep pace with the player?
"He was averaging 30 points when this team wasn't as good," Dort muses, "and then he elevated the team at the same time. When a team transitions from bottom of the league to the No. 1 seed for consecutive years, the player deserves recognition, and he's earned every bit of it."
Indiana Pacers center Tony Bradley, a former teammate, echoes the sentiment that SGA's rise has been long overdue, despite some incremental improvements to his game.
"Honestly, he's the same player – the potential has always been there," Bradley says. "What he's doing now is just getting more acknowledgment."
So, What Makes SGA Stand Out?
From a competitive nature that mirrors CP3's own, to a gift for connecting with his teammates, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander presents a unique blend of talent, work ethic, and leadership. The key to understanding his greatness lies in appreciating his versatility and ability to adapt to any situation.
According to CP3, "We'd go at it during practice – anything from drills to one-on-one shooting contests as the gym cleared out. And even during the down years we talked about games every night – his team, their hooping, everything."
Despite scrimmage battles and intense competition, SGA's camaraderie and easy-going nature ensures team cohesion, making the workplace a friendlier and more productive environment.
CP3, who rarely gushes about opponents, couldn't help but put SGA in a class of his own. "It's a challenge going up against him, but some relationships transcend competition. The year we spent together will always hold a special place in my heart, and SGA will be one of my brothers."
As the NBA Finals prepare to tip off, all eyes are on Gilgeous-Alexander. With his dynamic gameplay, competitive spirit, and deep commitment to his team, SGA could very well be the next face of the NBA. Watch out for the incredible journey that's just getting started.
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In the realm of professional basketball, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's unique blend of talent, work ethic, and leadership has marked him as a standout. His abilities mirror those of CP3, with their intense competitive nature and shared passion for the game evident during their time together at the Oklahoma City Thunder, as they challenged each other in practices and analyzed opponents on road trips.
During the 2019-20 season, CP3, a future Hall of Famer, recognized Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP potential and marveled at his dedication to the sport. This season, as the NBA Finals approach, all eyes are on Gilgeous-Alexander, who could very well become the next transformative figure in the world of sports, shining brightly in the NBA spotlight.
