Hamilton’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander crowned NBA’s MVP

A no-nonsense, Hamilton-style mentality is the secret to success for Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Yesterday, the man known as “SGA” was awarded the National Basketball Association’s Most Valuable Player — becoming only the second Canadian to achieve the honour. The Oklahoma City Thunder point guard claimed 71 first-place votes, beating out Nuggets centre Nikola Jokić and Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. A historic day for Canadian sports. The Hamilton-raised star was quick to credit everyone around him — on and off the court — for his success, including his roots here at home.

Emotion and jubilation were what Hamilton’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander expressed when thanking his high school sweetheart—now spouse—and the rest of his family, after claiming a rare NBA feat. He led his team to the best regular season record, set a league mark for margin of victory, and captured this year’s scoring title.

The man known as “SGA” was named the NBA’s 2025 Most Valuable Player, beating out Nuggets centre Nikola Jokić and Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo, with 71 first-place votes. Shai also joins fellow Canadian and two-time MVP Steve Nash as only the second Canadian to receive the honour. Celebrations continue back home for the Toronto-born, Hamilton-raised star. Commemorating his achievement, a mural depicting Shai with his arms raised in the air forming an “MVP” sign is now on display at the back of one of his former high schools—Sir Allan MacNab. Staff, students, and community members are sharing in the pride.

From humble beginnings, Gilgeous-Alexander’s game developed playing local basketball, eventually earning him a spot at the University of Kentucky. Selected 11th overall in the NBA Draft, he found his way to the Oklahoma City Thunder, dazzling the Midwest and the league with his wide-ranging skills. SGA also credited his teammates and inner circle for his success.

During his acceptance speech, Shai acknowledged his personal trainer, Nem Ilic, as a key part of his MVP journey. Ilic, who is also from Hamilton, says he is responsible for keeping the Canadian star healthy throughout a rigorous NBA season, and highlights Shai’s unwavering dedication to both his craft and his team.

While they celebrate the historic achievement, Ilic adds that Shai remains focused on his ultimate goal: winning an NBA title.