A Rising Star with a Veteran's Mindset in Oklahoma City
At just 26 years old, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stands as a pivotal figure in the NBA, not just as the Oklahoma City Thunder's cornerstone but as a player embroiled in the league's MVP conversation. The young guard has rapidly ascended to this status, in part due to his leadership and exceptional performance on the court. Despite being relatively young, Gilgeous-Alexander is seen as a veteran presence on a Thunder team brimming with potential.
The New Vet on the Block
Shai's impact extends beyond his individual accolades. With teammates like Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, aged 22 and 23, respectively, Gilgeous-Alexander's role takes on an even greater magnitude. At 26, he is strategically positioned as a mentor amidst this youthful roster. His presence resonates profoundly, especially in light of seasoned players such as Alex Caruso and Kenrich Williams, who, at the age of 30, have more court experience.
Despite his relative youth, his veteran status is unmistakable, underscored by his confidence and commitment to the team. "I believe in this team," he says, channeling a firm belief in the collective growth and future success of the Thunder.
Commitment to the Thunder
Shai's dedication to the franchise is unwavering. "I love Oklahoma City. I can't see a world where I'm not in OKC," he openly declares, a sentiment that extends beyond mere words. This allegiance is reflected in his actions, notably signing a five-year extension with the Thunder, a clear indication that he envisions his future intertwined with the team's trajectory. "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," he remarks, portraying an optimistic vision for the franchise’s path forward.
A Bright Financial Future
Looking ahead, the horizon is financially promising for Gilgeous-Alexander, as he becomes eligible for a supermax extension starting at 35% of the 2027-28 salary cap. This extension, which could extend through the 2030-31 season, promises lucrative returns, projecting an $81.4 million payout in its final year. Yet, Shai remains grounded, prioritizing his passion for the game over monetary pursuits. "The money doesn't matter, to a certain extent," he claims, "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."
Navigating the Thunder's Future
The Oklahoma City Thunder, guided by general manager Sam Presti, are on a defining journey. Coming off a challenging season with a 24-58 record in 2022, the team is in a pivotal phase of development. Shai’s performance and leadership are central to the Thunder’s prospective resurgence, especially if he maintains his current trajectory that has him projected to claim a spot on the All-NBA First Team for the third consecutive year.
For Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder is more than just a team; they are a family and a community he is deeply invested in. His unwavering belief in the team reflects not only his aspirations but also a broader vision shared by the organization. Shai's sentiments of, "Market, no market. I don't care. I love where I am," encapsulate his genuine connection to both the game and Oklahoma City.
As the Thunder continues to build around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, their future seems imbued with the promise of growth and success. With Shai leading the charge, they are not just aiming to improve their record but to carve out a legacy in the ever-competitive landscape of the NBA.