The Gil’s Arena crew isn’t pulling punches—Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s rise has the fingerprints of the NBA all over it. After a monster season and a potential Finals run, they believe the league is strategically positioning the Oklahoma City Thunder star as its next global face.
At just 26, SGA is already doing things only Michael Jordan has done—he’s the second guard ever to average 30+ points on 50% shooting for three straight seasons. The numbers speak, and so does the league’s growing spotlight on him.
If Shai walks away from this year with an NBA title, MVP, Finals MVP, WCF MVP, and the scoring crown, he’ll enter a class so elite, only Magic Johnson and a few legends have touched it.
The Gil’s Arena crew breaks down the behind-the-scenes moves the league often makes to boost a narrative—whether that’s marketing, awards, or media coverage. And in 2025, SGA seems to be the league’s priority pick.
Why? He’s got the clean-cut look, no controversies, undeniable talent, and a charismatic style that’s easy to sell.
Not everyone’s sold. Critics say SGA is too quiet, too humble, and plays in a market (OKC) that doesn’t naturally command global attention.
But the league has pushed past that before. Remember 1980? Kareem had better numbers, but Magic Johnson’s youth and energy won him the Finals MVP. Sometimes, image does beat stats.
Jayson Tatum had a strong case to be the face last year—but despite the stats, he didn’t get the Finals MVP or the media push. Gil’s Arena argues this is by design. Tatum might have the game, but SGA has the narrative.
Will fans tune in to watch OKC? That’s the debate. But between his unique game, fashion-forward style, and growing highlight reel, SGA is slowly converting the skeptics.
Is one incredible year enough to anoint someone the league’s next king? The crew is split. Some say SGA’s reign starts now, while others believe he needs sustained dominance before he’s truly “the guy.”
