Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named Sports activities Illustrated’s 2025 Sportsperson of the 12 months, cementing a historic season that reshaped each his profession and the Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder’s legacy. Gilgeous-Alexander graces the quilt of the Sportsperson of the 12 months print situation, which hits newsstands January 8.
In its 71st 12 months, Sports activities Illustrated chosen Gilgeous-Alexander after he led the Thunder to a franchise report 68-win season and an NBA championship. Alongside the way in which, he captured each the NBA MVP and NBA Finals MVP awards, finishing some of the dominant particular person seasons in league historical past.
Past the accolades, Gilgeous-Alexander’s impression prolonged properly previous the court docket. By means of constant charitable work in Oklahoma Metropolis and his native Canada, he has constructed significant connections in each international locations, reinforcing the concept that small-market groups can wield international affect when led by goal and character.
Sports activities Illustrated’s Sportsperson of the 12 months honor, awarded since 1954, acknowledges the athlete who finest embodies excellence and sportsmanship. Previous recipients embrace Billie Jean King, Wayne Gretzky, Serena Williams, LeBron James, and Megan Rapinoe.
Reflecting on his success, Gilgeous-Alexander emphasised development over validation. He famous that reaching profession defining milestones solely highlighted how a lot potential nonetheless stays. He additionally spoke candidly about studying to channel feelings into motivation, crediting that development as a key to his maturity as a pacesetter.
Fatherhood has additional formed his perspective. Elevating his son, Ares, has helped him see the larger image and strategy management with empathy. Regardless of his achievements, Gilgeous-Alexander admits the journey nonetheless feels surreal, typically pausing to understand how far he has come.
