What’s the greatest honor for a soccer star playing in Europe? The answer is simple: One, to clinch the glorious UEFA Champions League trophy. Two, win the Ballon d’Or. And for the first time in 21 years, neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo are ruling the Top 2 spots. Instead, we have a whole new list of Europe’s thirty most impactful players. Meanwhile, the soccer fever has spread beyond European nations and reached the NBA courts because Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has picked his numero uno from the roster!

Quite a few stars from Real Madrid and Manchester City have secured their place in the Top 30. After all, these last two seasons of European soccer have been a story of these two clubs. And while, Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Tony Kroos found their way to the Top 10; the Brazilian left winger Vinicius Jr., although slightly lower on the list, shines gloriously. And, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the OKC Thunder shooting guard, has become a new support system for Vini Jr.

Taking up the responsibility of being the greatest cheerleader, SGA took to his IG Story to share the news of his buddy’s Ballon d’Or nomination. With a “👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾” as the caption, the Oklahoma City Thunder star extended his good wishes to the Real Madrid ace. Of course, holding the piece of golden beauty must be the ultimate dream, Vini is thinking of currently. And Shai Gilgeeous-Alexander’s added support would go a long way. Since there had been a few doubts and speculations on whether Vini Jr., could make it to the Ballon d’Or nominee list, this rare feat achieved deserves a special celebration.

This cheering comes months after SGA humbled Vini with a Cristiano Ronaldo-esque celebration in Madrid, Shai is going all-out in support of his favorite soccer club’s foreman. Shai and Vini’s Spain adventure helped solidify their friendship. No wonder, when the time calls for it, the NBA star and the soccer beast never disappoint.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander imitates CR7 to celebrate his ‘win’ against Vinicius Jr.

The 2x NBA All-Star has more in common with Vini than just being incredible talents in their fields. Their friendly bonding and mutual admiration are examples of the camaraderie that spans its wings through all walks of sports. However, how are they supposed to keep their competitive tingles in check? That is nearly impossible. When Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a penalty against Vinicius Jr., he couldn’t contain his excitement. What other place is better than the Real Madrid training grounds to celebrate like Cristiano Ronaldo? Yep, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander went “SIUUU” all the way through.

SGA was also there when Vini and Co. were playing against Manchester City in the UCL semi-finals. Donning the iconic white jersey, Shai donned the iconic white jersey, stepped onto Santiago Bernabeu’s pitch, kicked the ball, and took photos. And who knew, the Brazilian forward had a keen eye for basketball too? He joined the OKC Thunder giant at the Wizink Center watching Real Madrid‘s basketball team triumph in Europe. From time to time, these stars come together to give endearing moments to the fans and also enjoy each other’s company. We can’t wait to see how SGA will react if Vinicius Jr. wins the Ballon d’Or this time.

So now fans have two things to ponder. First, who will win the elite trophy of the best player in Europe? Second, what does the 2024-25 NBA season have in store for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander? Since his debut, the Toronto native has had one of the most glorious campaigns in the world of basketball, so of course, expectations are high. And hopefully, SGA won’t disappoint once again.