Breaking: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Becomes First Kentucky Alum to Win NBA MVP — His Emotional Tribute Will Melt Every Wildcat Fan’s Heart
In a historic moment for both the NBA and the University of Kentucky, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named the 2025 NBA Most Valuable Player, becoming the first former Wildcat to ever win the prestigious award. The announcement marks the culmination of an incredible season and a remarkable journey for the Canadian-born star who once wore Kentucky blue with pride.
Gilgeous-Alexander, who has steadily ascended into NBA superstardom, dominated the league this season with a combination of scoring brilliance, elite playmaking, and defensive intensity. Averaging over 31 points, 7 assists, and nearly 2 steals per game while leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a top-three seed in the Western Conference, SGA’s all-around excellence earned him the respect of players, coaches, and media alike.
But it was what happened after he accepted the MVP trophy that sent waves through the Big Blue Nation.
With emotion in his voice and tears welling in his eyes, Gilgeous-Alexander took a moment during his acceptance speech to pay tribute to the place that shaped his rise — the University of Kentucky.
“To Coach Cal, to the staff, to my brothers in Lexington — this is for you,” he said, gripping the trophy tightly. “Kentucky gave me a foundation. They believed in me before the world knew my name. I still carry that love and fight with me every night I step on the court. This isn’t just my MVP — this is for the Big Blue Nation.”
The heartfelt acknowledgment sparked an outpouring of pride and emotion from Kentucky fans across the globe. Social media lit up with messages from former teammates, current players, and Wildcat legends, celebrating not only Gilgeous-Alexander’s achievement but the bond he’s kept with the program.
Head Coach John Calipari, who coached SGA during his lone season in Lexington, released a statement shortly after the MVP announcement: “Shai came to us as a humble, hardworking young man who just wanted a chance. He grew into a leader, a competitor, and now, the best player in the world. We are beyond proud of him. He represents everything Kentucky basketball is about.”
Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey to MVP is all the more inspiring given how overlooked he once was. Arriving at Kentucky in 2017 as a four-star recruit, he began the season on the bench. But through relentless work, a high basketball IQ, and unshakable confidence, he became the team’s star point guard, leading them to an SEC Tournament title and a Sweet 16 run.
Now, just a few years later, he stands atop the basketball world — not only as a symbol of individual excellence but also as a proud ambassador for Kentucky basketball.
For the Big Blue Nation, the moment is more than just history. It’s a reminder of what the program represents: brotherhood, growth, and legacy.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP win is a victory for Kentucky, a tribute to its tradition, and a powerful message to every future Wildcat — greatness starts in Lexington.