“Every experience is different, teaches you a new thing good or bad and you just take it, learn from it, and move on.” This is what inspires Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to navigate his NBA journey through injuries. In June 2018, 20-year-old Shai stepped into the NBA after being drafted as the 11th overall pick by the Hornets, but he was later traded to the Clippers. Who knew this young guard was about to make his mark in the NBA?

As the hooper continues to register stellar performances, the curiosity to know more about the 26-year-old is only natural. So, let’s know about his family roots.

Where is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from?

Shaivonte Aician Gilgeous-Alexander was born on July 12, 1998, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Later he grew up in Hamilton, Ontario. His nationality is Canadian, but do you know that he is of mixed ethnicity? Yes, his father Vaughn Alexander is from Canada, but his mother Charmaine Gilgeous is from Antigua and Barbuda. Thus, making his ethnicity as Canadian-Caribbean. However, he isn’t the only athlete from his family. His mother was a track athlete and participated in the 1992 Summer Olympics, representing Antigua and Barbuda.

So now you know where he gets his athletic genes from! However, his father is the one who coached him in his early days. His crucial practice session with his father and his leadership made him fall in love with basketball and eventually made him the person he is today. “My whole life I always believed in myself and my abilities, in how hard I worked,” Shai once remarked.

His mother’s genes passed on to his younger brother, too. Thomasi Gilgeous-Alexander was a college basketball player for the Evansville Purple Aces. Now that you know his family, let’s know what has he done for his homeland other than representing it on the big stage.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: A hero back home

When Shai Gilgeous-Alexander stepped into The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, he radiated a superhero aura. Standing at 6-foot-6, he left the children in the hospital amazed and filled with joy. Though he wasn’t wearing a flashy costume or his Thunder jersey, his presence alone was enough to make him a hero in their eyes.

SickKids CEO Jennifer Bernard described the atmosphere during his visit, noting the excitement that grew as more kids gathered around, “He is a beacon of light for our whole country. We all felt a part of the championship and the bronze medal when he helped Canada bring it home. That was special.” For Shai, returning to his roots meant giving back to a community that has supported him.

His role as a national icon was solidified through his contributions to Canada’s basketball achievements. With his remarkable talent and character, he embodies the spirit of giving back! At only 26 years old, Shai continues to inspire. How many athletes choose to uplift others in such meaningful ways? For him, it’s clear: this journey is about more than just basketball! His actions prove that making a difference is truly what counts.