Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has played in 462 games during his pro basketball career and earned 15,291 minutes in those games. Gilgeous-Alexander has started in 453 matchups, and in those contests he averages 24.4 points per outing and has earned 11,294 points in all. He accounts for 26.6 pts per 36 mins, in addition to collecting 5.2 boards and adding 5.6 assists in his career. By knocking down 3,943 baskets of 7,872 attempts, Gilgeous-Alexander has accumulated a 50.1% FG%. By making 614 of his 1,729 shots from behind the 3PT line, he has accounted for a 3pt rate of 35.5%. By making 3,329 of 6,143 two-point shot attempts, he has earned a rate of 54.2%. Gilgeous-Alexander has buried 2,794 out of 3,243 shots at the foul line, which had him earning a percentage of 86.2%. Stepping onto the court with an eFG% of 54.0%, he has additionally collected 1,044 fouls and 1,072 turnovers. Having collected 1,860 defensive boards and 351 on the offensive end, Gilgeous-Alexander has 2,211 rebounds in total in his pro basketball career. He has a total of 666 steals, in addition to 370 blocks and 2,362 assists. When talking about stats per game, Gilgeous-Alexander sports an average of 5.1 dimes in addition to 4.8 boards. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a name that’s quickly becoming well-known in basketball circles. With his impressive skills on the court and a calm demeanor off of it, he’s a player that many young athletes look up to. In this article, weยll dive into his journey to the NBA, his current performance, and what makes him stand out in a league full of talent.
Early Life and Path to the NBA
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was born on July 12, 1998, in Toronto, Canada. Growing up, he was always passionate about basketball, playing the sport from a young age. He attended high school at Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of college scouts.
After high school, Shai decided to play college basketball for the University of Kentucky, a school known for producing NBA talent. During his time at Kentucky, he quickly established himself as a key player, known for his versatility and ability to perform under pressure. His standout performance at Kentucky set the stage for his entry into the NBA.
Drafted into the NBA
In 2018, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander declared for the NBA Draft and was selected 11th overall by the Charlotte Hornets. However, he was soon traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he began his professional career. His rookie season with the Clippers was impressive; he averaged 10.8 points, 3.3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game, showcasing his potential as a future star.
His time with the Clippers was short-lived, though, as he was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2019. This trade proved to be a turning point in his career.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with the Oklahoma City Thunder
Since joining the Thunder, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has continued to develop his game. He quickly became the centerpiece of the teamยs rebuilding strategy, taking on a leadership role despite his young age. His ability to play both point guard and shooting guard gives the Thunder flexibility in their lineup.
Performance and Stats
In the 2020-2021 NBA season, Shai elevated his performance significantly. He averaged 23.7 points, 5.9 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game, making him one of the most versatile guards in the league. His shooting accuracy also improved, with a field goal percentage of 50.8% and a three-point shooting percentage of 41.8%.
Shaiยs stats reflect his growth as a player and his importance to the Thunder. His ability to drive to the basket, combined with his shooting prowess, makes him a constant threat on the court.
What Makes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Stand Out?
Versatility and Skill Set
One of Shaiยs most notable attributes is his versatility. He can play multiple positions, which allows his team to adapt to various situations during a game. His skill set includes excellent ball handling, a strong defensive presence, and the ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
Leadership and Composure
Despite being a young player, Shai has shown maturity and leadership on the court. His composure during high-pressure moments is remarkable, and he often acts as a calming presence for his teammates. This leadership quality is rare for players his age and has earned him respect from coaches and peers alike.
Work Ethic
Shaiยs work ethic is another reason for his success. He is known for his dedication to improving his game, spending countless hours in the gym working on his skills. This commitment to excellence is evident in his continuous improvement each season.
Fan Following and Impact
Shai Gilgeous-Alexanderยs impact extends beyond the basketball court. He has a growing fan base, not only in Oklahoma City but across the NBA. Fans admire his playing style, demeanor, and the way he carries himself as a professional athlete.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Falcons Jersey
For fans looking to show their support, the Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Falcons jersey has become increasingly popular. Whether attending games or simply wanting to represent their favorite player, fans proudly wear his jersey, which symbolizes his influence and popularity in the basketball community.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, the future seems bright for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. As he continues to develop his skills and gain experience, thereยs no doubt that he will remain a key player for the Thunder and potentially become one of the top guards in the NBA.
The Thunder are in a rebuilding phase, and with Shai at the helm, they have a solid foundation to build upon. If he continues on his current trajectory, the sky is the limit for this young star.
Conclusion
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is more than just a talented basketball player; heยs an inspiration to young athletes everywhere. His journey from a young boy in Toronto to an NBA star is a testament to hard work, dedication, and perseverance. As he continues to make waves in the NBA, fans and analysts alike are excited to see what the future holds for this rising star.
Whether youยre a Thunder fan, a basketball enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates talent and hard work, keeping an eye on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is well worth it. His story is one of passion and determination, and itยs only just beginning.