He Couldn’t Crack the Starting Five at Kentucky… Now Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Just Made NBA History
OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — From the bench at Rupp Arena to the pinnacle of basketball greatness, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has authored one of the most remarkable stories the NBA has seen in decades.
The former Kentucky Wildcat, who didn’t earn a starting role until midway through his freshman season, has now achieved what only three other players in NBA history have done: winning the NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, the Scoring Title, and the NBA Finals MVP all in the same season.
It’s a historic trifecta that cements Gilgeous-Alexander’s status among the game’s all-time greats—and a testament to how far perseverance, patience, and quiet determination can take a player.
🏀 The Road Few Believed Possible
When Gilgeous-Alexander arrived at the University of Kentucky in 2017, he was far from a household name. Overshadowed by higher-ranked recruits and battling for minutes on a stacked Wildcats roster, SGA didn’t crack the starting lineup until 16 games into the season.
But once given the opportunity, he never looked back.
Fast forward to 2025, and the 6’6″ guard is not only a cornerstone for the Oklahoma City Thunder, but also one of the most complete, dynamic, and efficient players in the world.
This season, his résumé speaks for itself:
NBA MVP
NBA Scoring Champion (32.7 PPG)
NBA Finals MVP
First-ever NBA Championship for Oklahoma City since 1979 (then the Seattle SuperSonics)
📖 Joining the Rarest of Company
Gilgeous-Alexander becomes just the fourth player in league history to win the MVP, Scoring Title, and Finals MVP in the same season—a feat previously accomplished by:
Michael Jordan (1991, 1992, 1996, 1998)
Shaquille O’Neal (2000)
LeBron James (2012)
That’s it. That’s the list.
“It doesn’t even feel real,” Gilgeous-Alexander said after lifting the Larry O’Brien Trophy.
“To be mentioned alongside names like MJ, Shaq, and LeBron… I couldn’t have dreamed it. Especially knowing where I started.”
🔥 The NBA’s Most Reluctant Superstar?
Despite his meteoric rise, Gilgeous-Alexander has largely shunned the spotlight. Known for his calm demeanor, silky-smooth game, and workmanlike approach, he’s become a fan favorite for his humility as much as his highlight-reel plays.
His path—from an under-the-radar recruit, to 11th overall pick in the 2018 draft, to centerpiece of one of the league’s youngest and most exciting teams—has made him the poster child for player development and long-term vision.
💡 What This Means for the NBA
In an era where superteams and flashy headlines often dominate, Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise reminds the basketball world that greatness can still be forged quietly, through patience, loyalty, and relentless work.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, armed with a deep roster of young stars like Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, and Josh Giddey, appear poised to be a Western Conference powerhouse for years to come.
And with SGA at the helm, their championship window may have only just opened.
