Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, affectionately known as 'Shai' or 'SGA,' is a Canadian basketball sensation who plays for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. SGA was once labeled an upcoming star with a promising future, and since the 2022-23 season, it has become evident that the future has arrived! Since the start of the 2022-23 season, SGA has established himself as a widely celebrated superstar guard.
In the 2022-23 NBA season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander evolved into an offensive juggernaut as he was ranked fourth in the league for both total points scored, with a remarkable 2,135 points, and points per game, with an impressive 31.4 average as per Basketball Reference. He is a crafty ball handler who uses his speed and footwork to get to his ‘sweet spots.’ In the 2022-23 season, SGA averaged 31.4 points on 51.0% shooting, 5.5 APG, and 4.8 RPG. Later in the 2023-24 season, SGA averaged 30.1 points, 5.5 rebounds, 6.2 assists, and a career-high 2 steals per game as per Basketball Reference.
Related: Shai Gilgeous Alexander Contract
Who was Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drafted to?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was drafted by the Charlotte Hornets with the 11th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. However, he was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers on the same day.
The Clippers had their eyes set on SGA for their future franchise point guard and worked out a trade deal with the Hornets. His Canadian heritage attracted the interest of the Toronto Raptors as well. However, it was the Los Angeles Clippers who ultimately succeeded in securing Shai’s services by trading their 12th overall draft pick, Miles Bridges, along with two future second-round draft selections.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s first season with the Clippers saw him play 82 games, averaging 10.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists.
Later, in July 2019, a significant trade unfolded as the Clippers decided to acquire then six-time All-Star Paul George, for whom they traded SGA, veteran forward Danilo Gallinari, and five first-round picks. This blockbuster trade kickstarted the SGA era at Oklahoma City Thunder, where he has continually honed his skills and evolved into one of the league's premier point guards.
Related: Shai Gilgeous Alexander's Parents
FAQ on Shai Gilgeous Alexander
A. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has played only for two NBA teams - Los Angeles Clippers and Oklahoma City Thunder as of 2024.
A. OKC Thunder traded away All-star, then-MVP finalist Paul George and received Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, veteran forward Danilo Gallinari, and five first-round picks.
A. The Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to Thunder trade happened in July 2019.
A. SGA averaged 30.1 ppg in the 2023-24 season.
A. SGA attended University of Kentucky.
