Shai Gilgeous-Alexander named Canada’s Best Athlete

Hamilton’s own basketball superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was recognized as Canada’s Best Athlete.

Gilgeous-Alexander is the second NBA player to ever win the Nothern Star Award.

On Friday night the Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder face off against the Toronto Raptors at the Scotiabank Arena in front of a Canadian crowd.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander says he is excited to come back and play in the building.

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“It never gets old playing in front of family and friends. A lot of them have seen me grow through the years, and to be on the stage in front of them is special,” says Gilgeous-Alexander.

The Oklahoma City Thunder head coach Mark Daigneault says they love coming to Toronto because the fans always welcome the team and Guilles-Alexander with open arms.

Daigneault also says the point guard does a great job at representing his hometown and his country on and off the court.