After more than 120 years of Kentucky basketball, the program finally has one more achievement to add: producing an NBA Most Valuable Player. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander earned this historic title during the 2023 Western Conference Finals, becoming the first former Kentucky Wildcat to receive the NBA MVP award. His outstanding performance as the Oklahoma City Thunder’s leading star put him in league-wide acclaim.
Gilgeous-Alexander led the NBA in scoring with an average of 32.7 points per game, while playing 34.2 minutes on average. He sustained a streak of scoring 20 or more points in 72 straight games and contributed 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per contest. His all-around impact was critical in securing the Thunder’s best league record in the season.
A Message of Gratitude and Recognition from SGA and Kentucky
Following his MVP announcement, Gilgeous-Alexander expressed deep appreciation to his supporters, emphasizing his wife’s role in his life.
Thank you for everything. I wouldn’t be the man I am, I wouldn’t be the player I am, I wouldn’t be the father I am, without you.
—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
The University of Kentucky also publicly celebrated his achievement, extending congratulations in a heartfelt message published in The Oklahoman, Oklahoma City’s hometown newspaper. The note commemorated Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey from a young player arriving in Lexington in 2017 to becoming an NBA leader:
In June of 2017, you were a kid from Hamilton, Ontario, arriving to your new home in Lexington. You had a mission and a dream. You brought us an SEC Tournament Championship and countless other memories before continuing your life’s dream to compete with the best of the best in the NBA. We couldn’t be prouder of the man, teammate, player and leader you’ve become. You’ve always been one of one and now you’re not only playing with the best, you are the best. The first Kentucky Wildcat ever to be named NBA MVP. From your Wildcat family and all of Big Blue Nation: Congratulations, Shai.
—University of Kentucky
The Oklahoma City Thunder on the Brink of NBA Finals
After a tremendous regular season, Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder have pushed deep into the postseason. Despite a stumble in game three of the Western Conference Finals, Oklahoma City holds a 2-1 series advantage heading into game four. A victory in the upcoming game, scheduled for 8:30 PM ET on ABC, would place the Thunder firmly on the path toward their first NBA Finals appearance in years.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s exceptional leadership and skill continue to elevate the team’s performance and instill hope for a historic playoff run, bringing excitement to fans both in Oklahoma City and across Kentucky.
The Broader Impact of Gilgeous-Alexander’s Achievement
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP honor is more than an individual milestone; it represents a significant moment for Kentucky basketball and its fanbase. As the program’s first NBA MVP, he has set a new standard for Wildcats aspiring to succeed at the highest professional level. His success also shines a positive spotlight on the University of Kentucky’s basketball legacy, reinforcing its reputation for producing elite talent capable of dominating on the largest stages.
Looking ahead, Gilgeous-Alexander’s continued success in the playoffs could inspire future Wildcats and impact recruiting by highlighting the pathways the program offers to NBA superstardom. For Oklahoma City, having an MVP-caliber leader offers a genuine chance to compete for the NBA championship and transform the franchise’s future trajectory.