Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named Sports Illustrated's 2025 Sportsperson of the Year, the magazine announced Tuesday. The prestigious award recognizes athletes who demonstrate outstanding athletic achievement and embody the spirit of sportsmanship, leadership, and character, both on and off the court.
Gilgeous-Alexander, in his seventh NBA season, led the Thunder to a surprising top seed in the Western Conference playoffs after widespread predictions of a rebuilding year for the young squad. He averaged a career-high 30.5 points per game, along with 6.2 assists and 5.5 rebounds, solidifying his position as one of the league's premier players and a frontrunner for the NBA's Most Valuable Player award.
"Shai’s incredible performance this season, coupled with his unwavering commitment to his team and the Oklahoma City community, made him a clear choice for this year's Sportsperson of the Year," said Sports Illustrated editor-in-chief Melissa Williams in a statement. "He exemplifies the qualities we look for in a recipient of this award, demonstrating not only exceptional athleticism but also exceptional character."
Beyond his on-court accomplishments, Gilgeous-Alexander has also been recognized for his philanthropic efforts in Oklahoma City. He actively supports youth basketball programs and engages in community outreach initiatives, focusing on education and mentorship for underprivileged children. His commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond the basketball arena, further solidifying his selection as Sportsperson of the Year.
This marks the first time a Thunder player has received the individual honor since Kevin Durant in 2013. The award adds to a growing list of accolades for Gilgeous-Alexander, who was also named an NBA All-Star for the second consecutive year and earned All-NBA First Team honors.
The Thunder's success this season is largely attributed to Gilgeous-Alexander's leadership and poise under pressure. He has consistently delivered clutch performances and guided his young teammates, fostering a culture of teamwork and resilience within the organization. His ability to elevate the play of those around him has transformed the Thunder from a lottery team into a legitimate championship contender.
The selection of Gilgeous-Alexander also acknowledges the Thunder's impressive organizational turnaround. After several seasons of rebuilding, the team has quickly emerged as a force to be reckoned with, thanks in large part to astute drafting, player development, and a cohesive team environment spearheaded by Gilgeous-Alexander.
Past recipients of the Sportsperson of the Year award include iconic athletes such as LeBron James, Serena Williams, Michael Jordan, and Muhammad Ali. Gilgeous-Alexander joins this esteemed group, cementing his legacy as one of the most impactful and inspiring figures in sports today.
The Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year award has been presented annually since 1954, recognizing athletes who have not only achieved extraordinary success in their respective sports but have also demonstrated exceptional qualities of character and leadership. The award is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious honors in sports, reflecting the enduring power of sports to inspire and unite.
The presentation ceremony for the 2025 Sportsperson of the Year award is scheduled to take place in Oklahoma City next month. Details regarding the ceremony will be released at a later date. Fans and members of the media are expected to attend to celebrate Gilgeous-Alexander's achievement and recognize his contributions to the game of basketball and the Oklahoma City community. His selection serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and underscores the importance of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to making a positive impact beyond the playing field.
