Thunder coach Marc Daigneault’s take on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s humble approach

Before Oklahoma City Thunder faced the Dallas Mavericks head coach Mark Daigneault talked to his All-Star guard, Shai Gilgeous-AlexanderHis approach to leading his team as he ascends to NBA stardom. For Daigneault, Gilgeous-Alexander’s demeanor and influence on his Thunder teammates, along with his stellar talent, makes him an effective leader.

Daigneault discussed how impressed he is with how Gilgeous-Alexander is handling himself.

“What’s unique about him is that he’s a young, ambitious player who’s getting into the conversation,” Daigneault said. “He’s an All-Star player. He is a first-team All-NBA player. He was second in the MVP voting this year. He is clearly in the echelon of the league, where he is one of the best of the best without argument. And, a lot of times when guys evolve to that point, not even just NBA players, anybody who achieves that kind of success, it’s easy to get distracted by accolades, status, things outside of your control.

“And things outside of your craft. And that’s easy to change,” Daigneault concluded.

But Gilgeous-Alexander didn’t. He remains humble, which has made a huge impression on Thunder head coach Marc Denault.

“Some people get more entitled, arrogant, whatever, he’s gone the other way on all those things,” Daigneault added. “I think it’s really unusual and really unique.” He’s a player who’s stuck in this place he’s at, but he’s stayed focused on his craft. He crashed into this place that he is, but he remains a great person, a great teammate. He’s almost a better teammate as he’s gotten better. And I just think that’s super impressive because I think it’s really against the tide.”

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reacts to the ASG starter vote

Thunder All-Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was voted the starter for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game for the second consecutive season.

Gilgeous-Alexander will represent the Western Conference and was the leading vote-getter among guards. After Thursday’s loss, he discussed what it meant to him.

“It’s an honor to know that all my hard work has paid off,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “I appreciate my teammates and my coach for allowing me to be in this position to take advantage of the opportunity and perform every night, play at a high level every night. (Yes) make room for me, make room for me; sacrifice for me. I appreciate it, and it feels good. Some things you dream about as a child. It’s a dream come true.”

The NBA All-Star Game will be on February 16.