Friday May 23 2025
Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday May 23 2025
Also published in The Toronto Star.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Journey from Hamilton to NBA Stardom
In the heart of Hamilton, Ontario, where the steel mills meet a burgeoning cultural scene, a young basketball prodigy named Shai Gilgeous-Alexander took his first steps onto the hardwood.
Today, he stands as one of the NBA’s most celebrated players, having recently clinched the league’s coveted MVP award. This achievement not only marks a personal milestone for Gilgeous-Alexander but also resonates deeply with his hometown and beyond.
News: Hamilton’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wins NBA MVP award over Nikola Jokic
Shai’s journey began at St. Thomas More Catholic Secondary School in Hamilton, where he honed his skills and nurtured his passion for basketball. Hamilton has always been a city that champions its own, and Shai’s rise to prominence is a testament to that spirit. From local courts to the global stage, his journey reflects the determination and resilience that define this community. As the second Canadian ever to win the NBA MVP, he follows in the footsteps of Steve Nash, proving that Canadian talent can thrive in the upper echelons of a sport long dominated by American stars—a sport, ironically, invented by Canadian James Naismith.
Shai’s path was not without its challenges. Drafted 11th overall and initially overlooked by many, he quickly proved his worth, becoming the cornerstone of the Oklahoma City Thunder. His style of play—characterized by his ability to drive to the basket, draw fouls, and consistently score—has become the stuff of legend. Yet, it’s his humility and team-first mentality that endear him to fans and teammates alike.
Opinion: MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander should be the new face of the NBA
In winning the MVP, Gilgeous-Alexander has not only brought pride to Hamilton but has also set a new benchmark for Canadian athletes. His success underscores the potential of Canadian basketball, hinting at a future where our nation could become an athletic superpower, challenging traditional perceptions and rewriting the narrative.
His story is a reminder that greatness can emerge from anywhere—even from the streets of Hamilton and the halls of St. Thomas More. As he continues to lead the Thunder and represent Canada on the international stage, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s legacy is one that inspires and unites, reminding us all of the power of perseverance, community, and the pursuit of excellence.