Oklahoma City – A Surprise Visit in a Special Moment for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recently achieved a milestone that many dream of: he was named the NBA Most Valuable Player. But amid the celebration, a familiar face surprised him, adding a personal touch to an already memorable occasion. As he stood courtside at the Paycom Center, he noticed someone sitting next to his wife, Hailey, who he didn’t recognize. That was until he realized it was none other than Chris Paul, his former teammate and long-time mentor.
“It was amazing. It caught me off guard. I had to double take. I was like, ‘Who is that sitting with my wife?’” Gilgeous-Alexander recounted with a hint of amusement. Once the initial surprise faded and he recognized Paul, his relief turned into a smile: “And I was like, ‘Cool.’”
Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP announcement came after leading the Thunder to a remarkable 68 wins, the best record in the league, and winning the scoring title. In a pre-game ceremony prior to the Thunder’s commanding 118-103 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2 of the Western Conference finals, NBA commissioner Adam Silver handed him the prestigious trophy. With that win, the Thunder took a 2-0 series lead going into Game 3.
Watching from courtside, Paul enjoyed the moment as he applauded his former teammates, including Luguentz Dort, who was recognized for making his first NBA All-Defensive team. “It means everything to be here,” Paul expressed, visibly excited for his friends.
After the game, the camaraderie was palpable. Gilgeous-Alexander joined other teammates behind Thunder forward Chet Holmgren for a postgame interview that aired in China. Afterward, he made his way courtside to embrace his wife and exchange playful banter with Paul, who had succeeded in keeping his attendance under wraps. “You just lied in my face now,” Gilgeous-Alexander joked, eliciting laughter from the duo.
Paul, the future Hall of Famer and a veteran with a wealth of accolades, including 12 NBA All-Star appearances and a spot on the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team, shared his thoughts on the game and his connection with Gilgeous-Alexander. Having played alongside him for a season during their shared time with the Thunder amid the challenges of the pandemic, Paul’s influence has clearly made a lasting impact.
“It’s just family,” Paul said when discussing his presence at the game to celebrate Gilgeous-Alexander’s achievements. “I wouldn’t miss it for anything,” he added, emphasizing the significance of the MVP moment.
Reflecting on their mentorship relationship, Gilgeous-Alexander described Paul as more than just a mentor, but a genuine friend. “He’s always there to lean on,” Gilgeous-Alexander said, highlighting how Paul has guided him not just on the court, but in life. “He showed me how to take care of your body and eat well,” he noted, crediting Paul with helping him improve his diet during their time together.
The two players share a strong bond, with Paul being one of the first in Gilgeous-Alexander’s life to guide him toward achieving greatness in the NBA. As they both navigate the highs and lows of their careers, their friendship shines through.
Paul recognized the potential in Gilgeous-Alexander from early on and has witnessed his rise to stardom, which took another leap this season as Gilgeous-Alexander captured his first MVP award, defying predictions and expectations.
As the Thunder advance deeper into the playoffs, they find themselves just a handful of wins away from their first-ever NBA title. Gilgeous-Alexander, with his steady focus, acknowledged the importance of concentrating on the next game rather than getting ahead of themselves. “It is no different in this situation,” he remarked, mindful of the commitment that got them this far.
With the drive to achieve more significant milestones ahead, don’t be surprised if Chris Paul returns to Oklahoma City to support Gilgeous-Alexander should he and the Thunder make it to the NBA Finals. “At the end of the day, all he cares about is winning,” Paul said, encapsulating the shared passion and focus between mentor and mentee.
As the Thunder look to capitalize on their momentum this postseason, Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey is a testimony to hard work, friendship, and the pursuit of greatness in professional basketball. Fans can only anticipate what comes next for this remarkable team.
