Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
In the 2023 Basketball World Cup, Canada triumphed over the United States with a score of 127-118 during overtime, clinching the Bronze Medal.
Previously, Christos Tsaltas asked Shai Gilgeous-Alexander about Canada's historic advancement to the FIBA World Cup semifinals. Alexander responded that he would be truly satisfied when Canada secured the gold medal.
Alexander was Born in 1998. From an early age, Alexander displayed remarkable athleticism, particularly with his long and slender limbs.
During his high school years, he honed his skills at College in Tennessee, where, despite his moderate talent, he distinguished himself as one of the most diligent and hardworking players. Alexander's exceptional play caught the eye of numerous colleges, ultimately leading him to choose the University of Kentucky.
In 2017, for the University of Kentucky, Alexander was the sole player not rated as a five-star high school prospect by a sports website.
Despite this, his unrelenting work ethic continued to shine. His coach once described Alexander as a training enthusiast who never seemed to tire. He dedicated himself to daily practice sessions in the gym and even spent his free time studying game videos, often spending entire days alone in the video room.
Alexander's efforts paid off, and he excelled in his first 15 games at Kentucky, securing a starting position.
He averaged 36.6 minutes per game, showing significant improvement with averages of 16.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game.
His coach's trust in Alexander grew significantly during this period. When his coach learned of Alexander's intention to participate in the 2018 NBA draft, he promptly recommended him to Cassell, the assistant coach of the Clippers at the time. Eventually, the Hornets selected Alexander in the 2018 draft, and he was subsequently traded to the Clippers.
In his inaugural NBA season, Alexander appeared in all 82 games, posting averages of 10.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in 26.5 minutes per game.
In the summer of 2019, the entire league was vying for the services of Kawhi Leonard, who had just secured an NBA championship. In pursuit of pairing Leonard with George, the Clippers set their sights on Paul George, who was performing exceptionally well with the Thunder. Thunder GM Presti, known for his vision, expressed interest in Alexander alone.
Despite their reluctance, the Clippers eventually agreed to part with Alexander in their pursuit of a superstar pairing in Paul George and Kawhi Leonard.
In the 20-21 season, following Chris Paul's departure from the Thunder, Alexander emerged as the team's leader. Despite playing only 35 games that season due to injury, he averaged an impressive 23.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 5.9 assists, affirming his status.
Recently, he represented the Canadian Men's Basketball Team in the 2023 Basketball World Cup.
Under his leadership, Canada secured the bronze medal in this prestigious tournament.