Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named Sports Illustrated's 2025 Sportsperson of the Year, the magazine announced today. The honor recognizes Gilgeous-Alexander's outstanding performance on the court, his leadership within the Thunder organization, and his positive impact on the Oklahoma City community. The 26-year-old joins a prestigious list of athletes who have received the award, solidifying his status as one of the NBA's brightest stars.
Gilgeous-Alexander is coming off a stellar 2024-2025 season where he led the Thunder to a surprising top seed in the Western Conference playoffs. He averaged a career-high 33.4 points per game, placing him among the league's scoring leaders. Beyond his scoring prowess, Gilgeous-Alexander also contributed significantly in other areas, averaging 6.5 assists and 5.8 rebounds per game, showcasing his all-around abilities. His efficiency was also notable, shooting 53.5% from the field and 89.2% from the free-throw line.
"Shai embodies everything we look for in a Sportsperson of the Year," said Sports Illustrated editor-in-chief, Serena Williams (no relation to the tennis star), in a statement. "His exceptional talent is undeniable, but it's his dedication to his team, his commitment to improvement, and his engagement with the Oklahoma City community that truly set him apart. He's a role model for young athletes everywhere."
This marks the first time a member of the Oklahoma City Thunder organization has received the Sportsperson of the Year award since Kevin Durant earned the title in 2014. The award is a testament to the Thunder's continued growth and development into a legitimate championship contender, largely fueled by Gilgeous-Alexander's exceptional play.
The Thunder organization lauded the selection, releasing a statement praising Gilgeous-Alexander's leadership. "Shai's dedication to his craft and his unwavering commitment to the team have been instrumental to our success," the statement read. "He represents the values of the Thunder organization both on and off the court. We are incredibly proud of him and this well-deserved recognition."
Beyond his performance on the court, Gilgeous-Alexander has become a prominent figure in the Oklahoma City community. He has been actively involved in various charitable initiatives, including youth basketball camps, food drives, and mentorship programs for underprivileged children. His efforts to give back to the community have resonated deeply with fans and have further solidified his popularity.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey to becoming one of the NBA’s elite players hasn’t always been smooth. Drafted 11th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 2018 (and immediately traded to the Los Angeles Clippers), he demonstrated promise early in his career. However, it was his trade to Oklahoma City in 2019 that allowed him to flourish as the team's primary scoring option and floor general. He has steadily improved his game each season, transforming himself into a perennial All-Star and now, a Sportsperson of the Year recipient.
Looking ahead, Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to continue leading the Thunder in their quest for an NBA championship. The team boasts a talented young core, including Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams, and with Gilgeous-Alexander at the helm, they are poised to be a force in the Western Conference for years to come. His ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates, coupled with his defensive prowess, makes him a valuable asset on both ends of the court.
The Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year award will be officially presented to Gilgeous-Alexander at a ceremony in Oklahoma City next month. The event is expected to draw significant media attention and will further celebrate his accomplishments and contributions to the sport of basketball and the Oklahoma City community. Fans can expect extensive coverage of the event in the upcoming issue of Sports Illustrated.
