In a league where trades can make or break careers, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has written one of the most inspiring redemption stories in recent NBA history. Just a few years ago, he was shipped out of Los Angeles in a blockbuster trade. Today, he’s the face of a rising dynasty and the engine behind the Oklahoma City Thunder’s remarkable run to the NBA Finals.
On Thursday at 8:30 PM ET on ABC, the Thunder tip off Game 1 of the Finals — and Shai will be front and center, not just as a star, but as a leader whose journey reflects resilience, patience, and undeniable greatness.
The Trade That Started It All
Back in 2019, the Clippers made headlines when they traded for Paul George, sending a massive package to the Thunder in return. Among the draft picks and assets included in the deal was a young guard with promise — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. At the time, he had just wrapped up a solid rookie season in LA, showing glimpses of potential but flying under the radar compared to other rising stars.
To many, it was just a business move. To Shai, it was a turning point.
The Thunder weren’t expected to contend. With the departure of Russell Westbrook and Paul George, the team was entering a rebuild. But instead of fading into the background, Shai went to work — year by year, transforming himself from a promising role player into an All-Star, and then into an All-NBA First Team talent.
Now, he’s the cornerstone of a Thunder team that defied expectations all season long.
OKC’s Rise: From Rebuild to Finals
Most people didn’t see this coming. The Thunder weren’t supposed to be here — at least not this soon. With one of the youngest rosters in the NBA (average age 25.6), OKC was widely viewed as a team of the future. But the future has arrived early.
Behind Shai’s brilliance, the Thunder stormed through the Western Conference, taking down seasoned contenders and playoff-tested teams. They swept the Pelicans, took out the defending champion Nuggets in a grueling series, and outlasted the Timberwolves with a maturity that belied their years.
Now, they’re in the NBA Finals — and at the heart of it all is the man once traded away.
Shai’s Breakthrough Season
This isn’t just a feel-good story — it’s a masterclass in player development and determination. In the regular season, Shai averaged over 30 points per game, showcasing one of the most refined offensive arsenals in the league. He’s become a nightmare to guard — deadly in the midrange, crafty at the rim, and ice-cold in the clutch.
But it’s not just the scoring. Shai has grown into a complete player. He defends at a high level, facilitates for teammates, and leads with a calm, confident demeanor. He doesn’t need the spotlight — but when it’s on him, he shines.
And now, in his first Finals appearance, he has a chance to put an exclamation point on what has already been a career-defining season.
The Team Behind the Star
Of course, Shai hasn’t done it alone. The Thunder have built a roster that fits together beautifully. Chet Holmgren, in his first full season, has anchored the defense and provided spacing. Jalen Williams is blossoming into a two-way star. Josh Giddey brings vision, versatility, and balance to the backcourt.
But Shai is the leader. The one who sets the tone. The one who took being traded as fuel, not a failure. His transformation from the “other guy” in a blockbuster trade to one of the NBA’s elite is nothing short of extraordinary.
A New Era Dawns
The 2024–25 NBA season will be remembered for many things, but perhaps nothing more than the moment OKC arrived ahead of schedule. And as the Finals begin, all eyes are on the team that’s turned a rebuild into a revolution — and on the player who turned a trade into triumph.
Game 1 is more than just the start of a series. It’s the next chapter in a journey that began the day Shai was sent to Oklahoma City. It’s a full-circle moment. The league that once overlooked him now watches with admiration — and perhaps a little awe.
Tune In
Game 1 of the NBA Finals — presented by @YouTubeTV — tips off Thursday at 8:30 PM ET on ABC. The stage is set. The lights are bright. And leading his team onto basketball’s biggest stage is a player who once was considered expendable — but now stands as a symbol of resilience, leadership, and the future of the game.
From being traded to leading his team to the NBA Finals 🏁
This isn’t just a headline.
It’s the story of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
And it’s only getting better.
