Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Reveals Soccer Roots and Connections

In a surprising revelation, NBA MVP and Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has shared that soccer was his first passion before basketball took center stage. Speaking during a promotional tour for the upcoming 2025-26 NBA season, Gilgeous-Alexander discussed his early connection to soccer in a recent interview with GQ Sports.

During a segment called “Actually Me,” the Canadian athlete engaged with fans from around the world, answering a variety of questions. One inquiry stood out: “If you had to pick another career besides basketball, what would it be?” Gilgeous-Alexander’s response was clear: “If I could, I would play soccer.” He explained that soccer was his first sport, a fact that surprised many of his followers.

Growing up in Hamilton, Ontario, soccer was a significant part of Gilgeous-Alexander’s childhood. When he did not make his grade 9 junior basketball team, he turned to soccer, playing for the St. Thomas More midget squad, where he found considerable success. His impressive footwork on the basketball court can be traced back to his early days on the soccer field.

Building Bonds with Soccer Stars

As he has risen in the NBA ranks, Gilgeous-Alexander has maintained his love for soccer and forged friendships with prominent players in the sport. One notable connection is with Vinicius Jr., a star forward for Real Madrid. The two athletes met in Spain before the 2024-25 NBA season when Gilgeous-Alexander was seeking a mental break. Their friendship has blossomed since Vinicius attended a Thunder game in 2023, and the two later kicked a soccer ball around together before a match.

Gilgeous-Alexander also shares a bond with fellow Canadian soccer star Alphonso Davies of Bayern Munich. Their connection highlights a mutual respect as they represent Canada on the global sports stage.

While Gilgeous-Alexander’s basketball career is thriving, his love for soccer remains a core part of his identity. Fans are left to wonder how his soccer skills might have translated had he pursued that path instead. Nonetheless, his decision to focus on basketball has proven to be a wise one, as he continues to excel as one of the premier athletes in the NBA.