Oklahoma City star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander receives major honor after winning NBA MVP

The Oklahoma City Thunder enjoyed a remarkable 2024–25 season thanks to a dominant Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Canadian guard delivered standout performances that not only helped the team rise in the Western Conference, but also earned him top individual accolades—including the NBA MVP. That was followed by yet another significant recognition.

Oklahoma City mayor David Holt shared a special tribute on his official X account, honoring the Thunder star. “On behalf of the people of Oklahoma City, I congratulate our very own Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for being named the Most Valuable Player of the National Basketball Association!” the mayor wrote.

Alongside the congratulatory message, Holt posted an image of a proclamation that read: “Now, therefore, I, David Holt, Mayor of the City of Oklahoma City, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2025, as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Day in Oklahoma City. Given under my hand and the Seal of the City of Oklahoma City this 21st day of May 2025.”

The proclamation not only highlights the individual excellence of the Canadian guard this year, but also reflects the major impact the Thunder’s success has had on Oklahoma City and its residents, who are increasingly hopeful about what Mark Daigneault’s team can achieve this postseason.

Shai’s numbers

During the 2024–25 NBA regular season, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the league in scoring, averaging 32.7 points per game—2.3 more than his closest competitor, Milwaukee Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo. That performance earned him his first scoring title and solidified his MVP candidacy. He also averaged 5.0 rebounds and 6.4 assists.

In the postseason, however, Shai’s scoring output has dipped slightly. He currently ranks sixth overall with 29.2 points per game. Among players still competing for the championship, only New York Knicks’ Jalen Brunson is ahead of him, with 29.9. Gilgeous-Alexander has improved in other areas, now averaging 5.8 rebounds and 6.6 assists.

Steve Nash praises Shai

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s performances have not only earned him the NBA’s top individual honor, but also the praise of another MVP-winning Canadian guard. “I respect and admire Shai so much,” said Steve Nash in an interview with SportsNet. “Not only how he plays but how he carries himself and what he represents. It’s inspiring to watch someone’s unwavering desire to improve and perform. Shai is writing history and pushing boundaries. Proud is an understatement.”