Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Shares His Soccer Roots and Connections

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA MVP and star of the Oklahoma City Thunder, revealed a surprising connection to soccer during a recent media engagement. As he prepares for the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season, the Canadian athlete shared insights about his early passion for soccer, a sport he credits as his first love.

During a promotional campaign for GQ Sports, Gilgeous-Alexander engaged with fans in a segment titled “Actually Me.” When asked about a potential career outside basketball, he stated, “If I could, I would play soccer. Soccer is my first sport.” This revelation astonished many, particularly given his exceptional footwork on the basketball court, which can be traced back to his days on the soccer field.

Early Beginnings in Soccer

Growing up in Hamilton, Ontario, soccer was the initial sport that captured Gilgeous-Alexander’s interest. His journey began in childhood, and when he did not make the junior basketball team in grade nine, he turned to soccer as a viable option. He joined St. Thomas More’s midget squad and quickly made a name for himself with impressive performances. Despite transitioning to basketball, his fondness for soccer has remained strong, underscored by his ongoing friendships within the sport.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s passion for soccer has not only persisted but evolved into meaningful connections with prominent soccer players. His friendship with Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. exemplifies this bond. In the lead-up to the 2024-25 NBA season, Gilgeous-Alexander traveled to Spain, where he met with Vinicius. Their relationship deepened when Vinicius attended a Thunder game in 2023, showcasing the mutual respect and camaraderie between the two athletes.

Connections with Soccer Stars

The relationship with Vinicius Jr. highlights Gilgeous-Alexander’s commitment to maintaining ties with soccer. The two athletes share a passion for their respective sports, and a memorable moment came when Gilgeous-Alexander joined Vinicius on the field for a casual soccer session before a match. Such interactions illustrate the strong connections athletes can forge across different sports, fostering a sense of community.

In addition to his friendship with Vinicius, Gilgeous-Alexander also admires another Canadian soccer star, Alphonso Davies, who plays for Bayern Munich. Their relationship is particularly significant as both athletes represent Canada on the international stage. The mutual respect they share as fellow Canadians enhances their connection, bridging the gap between basketball and soccer.

As Gilgeous-Alexander continues to excel in basketball, his roots in soccer serve as a reminder of the diverse athletic talents he possesses. While his future is firmly planted in the NBA, his love for soccer remains evident. Fans are left to wonder what might have been had he chosen a different path, yet there is no doubt that basketball fans are grateful for his decision to pursue the sport.

In summary, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s recent revelations shed light on his early soccer background and ongoing relationships within the sport. As he prepares for the new NBA season, his passion for soccer and his connections to stars like Vinicius Jr. and Alphonso Davies highlight the unique intersections of talent across sports.