Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Biography
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a professional basketball player known for his versatility, skill, and leadership on the court. Born on July 12, 1998, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, he has become one of the standout guards in the NBA.
Early Life and Background:
- Full Name: Shaivonte Aician Gilgeous-Alexander
- Date of Birth: July 12, 1998
- Place of Birth (Hometown): Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Nationality: Canadian — Father: Vaughn Alexander — Mother: Charmaine Ann Marie Gilgeous (born 17 December 1971) is a former sprinter from Antigua and Barbuda.
Personal Life:
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander grew up in Hamilton, Ontario. He comes from a family with a strong athletic background. His cousin, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, is also a professional basketball player in the NBA.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander girlfriend:
Hailey Summers is now married. She got engaged in June 2023 and married in February 2024.
Education:
Shai was raised in Hamilton, Ontario, and attended St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School before transferring to Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for his high school career. His decision to move to the United States was driven by the desire to compete at a higher level and increase his chances of playing college basketball.
College Career:
- **College:** University of Kentucky
- **Years:** 2017–2018
Gilgeous-Alexander committed to the University of Kentucky, a program renowned for developing NBA talent. Playing under coach John Calipari, Shai showcased his skills during the 2017–2018 season. Despite initially coming off the bench, he quickly became a starter and a key player for the Wildcats.
He averaged 14.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game, leading Kentucky to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament. His impressive play earned him a spot on the All-SEC Second Team and solidified his status as a promising NBA prospect.
NBA Career:
Los Angeles Clippers (2018–2019)
- Rookie Season: Shai had a solid rookie year, averaging 10.8 points, 3.3 assists, and 2.8 rebounds per game. He quickly made a name for himself with his mature play and defensive capabilities.
Oklahoma City Thunder (2019-Present):
- Trade to Thunder: In July 2019, Shai was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder as part of the blockbuster deal that sent Paul George to the Clippers.
- Breakout Seasons: Shai has continued to develop his game dramatically in Oklahoma City. In his second season with the Thunder (2019–2020), he averaged 19 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, playing a key role in leading the team to the playoffs.
- Ongoing Development: Shai’s game has continued to grow, and he has become one of the cornerstones of the Thunder’s rebuilding process. He’s known for his excellent playmaking, scoring ability, and defensive prowess.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander declared for the 2018 NBA Draft and was selected 11th overall by the Charlotte Hornets. However, he was quickly traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. In his rookie season with the Clippers, Gilgeous-Alexander demonstrated his potential, averaging 10.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. His performance earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
In July 2019, Shai was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder as part of a blockbuster deal that sent Paul George to the Clippers. In Oklahoma City, Gilgeous-Alexander’s game flourished. He consistently improved his stats, averaging 19.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game in the 2019–2020 season. He continued to develop as the Thunder’s leader and primary playmaker.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Paris Olympics 2024:
Gilgeous-Alexander had a fantastic debut in the 2024 Paris Olympics as Team Canada defeated Greece, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo. read more
