Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Honors Wayne Gretzky Right After Becoming Canada’s Athlete of the Year

Oklahoma City Thunder franchise superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has had one of the best seasons so far from an individual perspective. The 25-year-old has had an exceptional year on the court. Apart from shouldering the Thunder side along with his teammates, he also took his national side to a new height in the world forum. Subsequently, the Canadian star took the privilege of receiving his country’s Athlete of the Year award. Moments later, he honored Canadian Ice Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky with a special gesture.

The Thunder star has recorded an average of 30.4 points in this season so far, competing in the MVP race. Apart from his consistency, he brought up the heat while facing the Golden State Warriors. The 25-year-old star seemed to have taken things personally against Stephen Curry, as his IG posts stand as proof. In this career notable moment, he received a perfect award.

Athlete of the Year SGA

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander played a crucial role in defeating Team USA in the Bronze medal game and won their first-ever medal at the FIBA World Cup. Rightly so, the country honored him with the Northern Star Award as Canada’s top athlete of 2023 on Monday. Shai became the second basketball player after Steve Nash, who won in 2005, to take home the Northern Star Award. This award was earlier known as the Lou Marsh Trophy. They select annually the recipients of the award through voting by sports journalists.

Shai played eight games for Canada in the FIBA WC and averaged 24 points with a high score of 31 points against Slovenia.

Following the announcement, the OKC star pulled up in NHL legend Wayne Gretzky’s jersey on the same day. Notably, the legendary Gretzky has won the most number of Northern Star Awards, which is 4 times.

Fresh off the announcement, the OKC star stopped at Paycom Center to take on the Utah Jazz in Oklahoma City.

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Moreover, Shai not only won an award from his national country but also aims to bag home a big NBA award.

Shai eyes two big NBA honors

This is the second year where the OKC star has managed to get a spot in the MVP conversation after finishing 5th in the last season. Moreover, he has recorded an average of 30 points in this season as well. Apart from that, the star could earn a spot in the NBA All-Defensive Teams. Considering his record on the defensive end of the court, Shai’s spot seems fixed. Notably, he has the most steals in the league currently with 55. Along with that, he has 18 blocks under his name, which is the most among the guards.

With Shai’s performances this season, he seems a shoo-in for an All-Star spot. This would mark his 2nd all-star selection in his career.

What do you make of Shai-Gilgeous Alexander’s career progression from benchwarmer to face of the franchise? Let us know in the comments below.

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