On May 18, 2025, Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) set social media ablaze with a cryptic yet confident Instagram post captioned, “They thought I was whyling when I was smiling.” Accompanied by a series of images showcasing his signature cool demeanor, the post quickly became a talking point among NBA fans, analysts, and even rival fanbases. The phrase, dripping with swagger and resilience, captures SGA’s mindset amid a stellar season and underscores his ability to let his game speak louder than the noise around him.
The Context: A Season of Dominance and Scrutiny
SGA’s 2024-25 NBA campaign has been nothing short of spectacular. As a leading MVP candidate, he’s averaged elite numbers while guiding the Thunder to one of the top records in the Western Conference. His smooth, methodical style—marked by crafty drives, pinpoint mid-range shooting, and playmaking—has drawn comparisons to past greats. Yet, with success comes scrutiny. Critics have labeled him a “free throw merchant,” arguing his frequent trips to the line stem from exaggerated contact. Others have downplayed his star power, claiming his game lacks the flash needed to captivate a broader audience.
Against this backdrop, SGA’s Instagram post feels like a subtle clapback. The caption, paired with images of him smiling post-game, suggests he’s unfazed by the doubters. It’s a reminder that while critics question his style or motives, he’s thriving—both on the court and in his mental approach.
The Post: A Viral Moment
Posted shortly after a playoff game, the Instagram update garnered thousands of likes and comments within hours. Social media amplified its reach, with fans sharing the caption alongside fire emojis and highlight clips of SGA’s performances. One user wrote, “Guess who got the last laugh,” hinting at SGA’s ability to silence critics with his play. Another shared a photo of SGA strolling off the court, exuding confidence.
The phrase itself—“They thought I was whyling when I was smiling”—carries a layered meaning. “Whyling” implies acting recklessly or out of control, while “smiling” reflects SGA’s calm, almost serene demeanor. It’s as if he’s saying the doubters mistook his confidence for chaos, when in reality, he’s been in control all along. The caption also echoes a cultural vibe, reminiscent of hip-hop bravado or a Drake lyric (fitting, given SGA’s Canadian roots and known affinity for music). Fans drew parallels to lyrics about laughing to the bank, highlighting the post’s playful yet defiant tone.
A History of Instagram Statements
This isn’t the first time SGA’s Instagram has stirred conversation. In November 2023, after dropping 40 points in an overtime win against the Golden State Warriors, he posted highlights of himself outmaneuvering an opponent. The move drew playful shade from the opponent’s family member, who jokingly called out SGA for rarely posting opposing players while acknowledging his greatness.
That earlier post showed SGA’s willingness to use Instagram as a platform for subtle trolling, and the May 2025 update feels like an evolution of that approach. This time, the target isn’t a specific opponent but the broader narrative questioning his legitimacy as a superstar.
The Smiling Assassin
The “smiling” motif in SGA’s caption ties directly to his on-court persona. Fans and media have long noted his unflappable nature, even in high-pressure moments. After a playoff performance, his ability to smile through the chaos—whether it’s a game-winning shot or a hard-fought battle—has become a hallmark. The Instagram post cements this image, framing him as a player who thrives under pressure while keeping his cool.
In a league where stars often clap back directly, SGA’s approach is refreshing. His post doesn’t name names or call out specific critics. Instead, it lets the work—and the smile—do the talking. As the Thunder push deeper into the playoffs, one thing is clear: SGA is smiling, and the doubters are still trying to catch up.
