“From Lexington to the League’s Summit: Kentucky Honors Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with an Old-School Salute After Historic MVP Win”
In a program steeped in tradition and dripping with accolades, you’d think Kentucky basketball had seen it all. But in over 120 years of storied history featuring national championships, All-Americans, and NBA superstars there was still one box left unchecked. That is, until this week, when Shai Gilgeous-Alexander etched his name into the annals of Wildcat greatness in a way no one ever had before.
The silky-smooth guard from Hamilton, Ontario, who once quietly stepped onto Kentucky’s campus in 2017 as an unheralded freshman, has now become the first former Wildcat to be named NBA Most Valuable Player. And true to form, the University of Kentucky found the perfect way to celebrate: an old-school, full-page newspaper ad in The Oklahoman, right in the heart of Oklahoma City.
It was a salute rooted in class and nostalgia a tribute that perfectly matched the elegance and humility of the Thunder’s MVP.
A Season for the Ages
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, or “SGA” as fans affectionately call him, didn’t just have a good year. He dominated. Averaging 32.7 points per game (leading the NBA in scoring), along with 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals, SGA powered the Oklahoma City Thunder to the best record in the league. He scored 20 or more points in 72 straight games, a streak that placed him among some of the game’s all-time greats.
His poise, creativity, and control made him a nightmare for defenses and a dream for every young hooper looking for a model of modern excellence.
After receiving the prestigious honor, Shai shared a heartfelt thank you with fans, teammates, and most of all, his wife:
“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.”
A Letter From Home
Back in Lexington, where his rise to stardom first began, the University of Kentucky responded with a timeless gesture. The full-page message read like a proud letter from family:
“In June of 2017, you were a kid from Hamilton, Ontario, arriving to your new home in Lexington… You’ve always been one of one and now you’re not only playing with the best, you are the best… From your Wildcat family and all of Big Blue Nation: Congratulations, Shai.”
It’s not often that a college program pays tribute this way, but for Kentucky, Shai’s rise was more than personal it was historic. A kid who didn’t even start the first month of his college career is now the best player in the world.
The Story Isn’t Finished Yet
While Kentucky fans soak in the pride of SGA’s MVP coronation, the job isn’t done for the man himself. With the Thunder holding a 2-1 lead in the Western Conference Finals, all eyes now shift to Game 4. A win would put Oklahoma City just one step away from the NBA Finals and the dream season would grow even more legendary.
From Rupp Arena to Paycom Center, from a humble recruit to the league’s top honor, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has carved out a path that future Wildcats will dream of following.
And Kentucky? They’ll always remember the quiet star who came with a dream and left as a living legend.
Congratulations, Shai. The Big Blue Nation is forever proud.
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