Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, popularly known as SGA, currently plays for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA. Born on July 12 1998 in Toronto, Ontario, he grew up in a sports family in Hamilton. His mother, Charmaine Gilgeous, was a track athlete who represented Antigua and Barbuda in the 1992 Summer Olympics, while his father, Vaughn Alexander, played a crucial role in his early basketball training.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s high school journey started at St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School in Hamilton, before transferring to Sir Allan MacNab Secondary School. To further develop his skills, he moved to the United States, enrolling at Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where he completed his junior and senior years.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 14.4 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.1 assists in his college career
Despite playing as a reserve, Gilgeous-Alexander averaged over 30 minutes per game, highlighting his important role in the team. His performance notably improved after a tough loss to UCLA, following that he scored 24 points against Louisville.
This game was a turning point in his college career, leading to his move from sixth man to starting point guard. Along with four other freshmen Hamidou Diallo, Nick Richards, Kevin Knox II, and P.J. Washington, he became a starter, helping his team through a challenging season that included a four-game losing streak.
Season | College | GP | Points | Rebounds | Assists | FG% | 3P% | FT% |
2017-18 | Kentucky | 37 | 14.4 | 4.1 | 5.1 | .485 | .404 | .817 |
His commitment and skill were visible in his statistics. He averaged 14.4 points per game, along with 4.1 rebounds and 5.1 assists. His performance in the SEC tournament and the NCAA Tournament further solidified his reputation as a rising star in basketball. His college numbers showed his versatility as a player.
SGA’s performance during his time in college proved his ability to adapt and perform well in a competitive environment, transitioning from a reserve player to a key starter for the Kentucky Wildcats. His ability to score, rebound, and assist made him a valuable asset to his team.