Sports Illustrated crowns Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 2025 Sportsperson of the Year

Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named the 2025 Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year, adding another major honor to a season that has already cemented his place among the NBA’s elite. 

The award recognizes Gilgeous-Alexander not just for his statistical achievements but also for his broader impact on the sport during a historic season for both the 27-year-old guard and the Thunder organization. 

His selection follows an outstanding performance that saw him lead Oklahoma City to one of its most successful campaigns in franchise history. He has been among the league’s top scorers while also shouldering a heavy offensive load for a Thunder team that has competed at the highest level throughout the campaign.

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Chasing down the record 🏃

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has now scored 20 or more points in 108 straight games, the second-longest streak of all time behind Wilt Chamberlain’s 126 games from 1961-63. pic.twitter.com/ekvYDujYYk

— ESPN Insights (@ESPNInsights) January 7, 2026

The Canadian-born guard’s awards résumé has been impressive. In the 2024–25 season, he was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player, leading the league with 32.7 points per game while also contributing solid assist and rebound numbers. 

His MVP season helped power the Thunder to the best regular-season record in the league and ultimately to the organization’s first NBA championship.

In addition to his MVP honor, Gilgeous-Alexander’s excellence carried into the postseason, where he was named Finals MVP after a commanding performance that capped a long playoff run. 

The Sportsperson of the Year award honors athletes who have made significant contributions to their sport while also resonating with broader audiences through character and leadership.

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