Shai Gilgeous-Alexander NBA trifecta reached new heights after he secured the NBA Finals MVP following Oklahoma City Thunder’s championship win over the Indiana Pacers in 2025. This prestigious honor crowned an extraordinary season where Shai also earned the regular season MVP and scoring title, placing him among the most iconic players in NBA history.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Joins an Exclusive Group with Historic Achievements
Gilgeous-Alexander became only the fourth player in NBA history to win the regular season MVP, Finals MVP, and scoring title all in the same year, joining Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Michael Jordan, and Shaquille O’Neal. Notably, Shai and Abdul-Jabbar are the only players to do so before turning 27. Broader career accomplishments combining these three awards also feature legends such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Steph Curry, and Wilt Chamberlain. Adding to his unique profile, Shai’s 2017 Kentucky Derby Festival MVP distinguishes him even further.
It’s hard to believe that I’m part of that group,
Shai said of his membership alongside Abdul-Jabbar, Jordan, and O’Neal.
It’s hard to even fathom that I’m that type of basketball player sometimes.
From Overlooked Recruit to NBA Superstar
Remarkably, Shai was the lowest-ranked recruit in his Kentucky freshman class, aside from Jemarl Baker who redshirted that year. Initially committed to Florida, he reopened his college recruitment in late 2016. Kentucky coach John Calipari discovered Gilgeous-Alexander during an official visit after seeing him perform at Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Chattanooga. Within ten days, Shai chose the Wildcats over Syracuse, Texas, and UNLV. Originally expected to be a backup for Quade Green, he soon took over the point guard role halfway through the season. Less than ten years later, he boasts one of the most impressive records in NBA history and stands as Kentucky’s most successful professional player.
As a kid, you dream, Shai reflected.
Every kid dreams. But you don’t ever really know if it’s going to come true. I’m just glad and happy that my dreams have been able to come true. That’s a ‘thank you’ to everyone who’s been in my corner and helped me get there. Wouldn’t have been able to get here without them. They know who they are. It’s a win for the family.
Shai Credits Team Chemistry and Brotherhood for Success
Shai’s connection to his teammates was also an important part of his success. Alongside Cason Wallace, who won a championship the 2022-23 season, he became one of only 18 Kentucky basketball players to capture NBA titles. Kentucky alumni have collectively won 26 NBA championships, and the number grows even considering players like DeMarcus Cousins, who earned a ring despite being waived before his team’s title run.
I think the most impressive part is, like, the group that did it, our togetherness on and off the court, like how much fun we have, it made it so much easier,
Shai commented.
It made it feel like we were just kids playing basketball. It was so fun.
All the achievements and accolades and things, like, they don’t even come close to the satisfaction of winning with your brothers and people that you are so close to and want to succeed just as much as you want yourself to succeed. That’s been the most impressive and fun part of it, just to know that I have 15 brothers that I just experienced a once-in-a-lifetime experience with. I’ll never forget them, they’ll never forget me.
Kentucky Players Who Have Won NBA Championships
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – Oklahoma City Thunder (2025)
Cason Wallace – Oklahoma City Thunder (2025)
Jamal Murray – Denver Nuggets (2023)
Anthony Davis – Los Angeles Lakers (2020)
Jodie Meeks – Toronto Raptors (2019)
Rajon Rondo – Boston Celtics (2008), Los Angeles Lakers (2020)
Derek Anderson – Miami Heat (2006)
Antoine Walker – Miami Heat (2006)
Nazr Mohammed – San Antonio Spurs (2005)
Tayshaun Prince – Detroit Pistons (2004)
Rick Robey – Boston Celtics (1981)
Kevin Grevey – Washington Bullets (1978)
Larry Steele – Portland Trail Blazers (1977)
Pat Riley – Los Angeles Lakers (1972)
Cliff Hagan – St. Louis Hawks (1958)
Frank Ramsey – Boston Celtics (1957, 1959-64)
Lou Tsioropoulos – Boston Celtics (1957, 1959)
Paul Noel – Rochester Royals (1951)
Looking Forward: What This Means for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the NBA
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s historic season cements his status among basketball’s elite, showcasing his relentless determination and remarkable skill. By joining an exclusive club with some of the greatest players ever, his legacy is firmly established while still unfolding. His journey from a lightly recruited freshman to a dominant NBA star inspires young athletes everywhere and signals an exciting future both for him and the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise. With his blend of talent, leadership, and teamwork, Shai is poised to continue making headlines for years to come.