Former Kentucky Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Shines at NBA All-Star Game

Former Kentucky Wildcats basketball standout Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has elevated his game to become one of the brightest stars in the NBA, notably showcased by his stellar performance in the recent NBA All-Star Game. With 31 points, including an impressive 7-for-10 shooting from beyond the three-point line, Gilgeous-Alexander continues to impress while playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Approaching the All-Star break, Gilgeous-Alexander boasted remarkable averages of 31.1 points, 6.5 assists, and 5.5 rebounds per game, solidifying his status as one of the top players in the league. Since entering the NBA as the 11th overall pick in the 2018 draft, he has maintained impressive statistics, averaging 22.5 points, 4.8 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game over 364 NBA appearances.

Former NBA star Stephon Marbury hailed Gilgeous-Alexander as the best Canadian basketball player ever, though the humble young star credited fellow Canadian Steve Nash as still being ahead of him. Despite the praise, Gilgeous-Alexander remains focused, expressing gratitude for the opportunities basketball has provided him.

Being an All-Star starter this season further solidifies Gilgeous-Alexander’s status as one of the NBA’s elite players. When asked if this could mark a turning point in his career towards the Hall of Fame, he emphasized staying present in the moment and focusing on continuous improvement.

The NBA has prominently featured the former University of Kentucky star in promotional activities, especially leading up to the All-Star Game in Indianapolis. Gilgeous-Alexander expressed his joy and gratitude for reaching this point in his career, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that brought him here.

Reflecting on his journey from UK, where he initially played behind Quade Green before emerging as a one-and-done lottery pick, Gilgeous-Alexander shared advice for aspiring young players. He emphasized the importance of honing one’s craft, finding their role, and excelling within it to achieve success.