Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Shares His Passion for Soccer

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA MVP and star of the Oklahoma City Thunder, has revealed a surprising connection to soccer, a sport he played before his basketball career took off. During a recent promotional tour ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season, Gilgeous-Alexander participated in a feature with GQ Sports, where he disclosed that soccer was his first love in sports.

In a segment titled “Actually Me,” the Canadian athlete interacted with fans and addressed various questions, including one that asked about a potential career outside basketball. Gilgeous-Alexander’s response was enlightening: “If I could, I would play soccer,” he said, prompting surprised reactions from his audience. He elaborated that soccer was his initial sport of choice during his formative years in Hamilton, Ontario.

During his childhood, Gilgeous-Alexander faced setbacks in basketball, notably not making his grade 9 junior team. This led him to pursue soccer instead, joining the midget squad at St. Thomas More, where he showcased exceptional talent. Despite transitioning to basketball, his passion for soccer remains strong, evidenced by his ongoing connections with soccer players and the sport itself.

Friendships with Soccer Stars

As Gilgeous-Alexander’s NBA career has flourished, he has maintained a keen interest in soccer, building friendships with notable players. One such friendship is with Vinicius Jr., a star for Real Madrid. The two connected before the 2024-25 NBA season when Gilgeous-Alexander visited Spain to recharge. Their bond deepened after Vinicius attended a Thunder game in 2023 and invited Gilgeous-Alexander to join him on the field for a casual kickaround.

Their camaraderie highlights Gilgeous-Alexander’s genuine love for soccer, underscoring his appreciation for the sport and its athletes. He also shares a mutual respect with Alphonso Davies, another soccer star from Canada. Their connection is particularly significant as they both represent their country on the international stage, creating a bond through shared experiences and backgrounds.

While Gilgeous-Alexander may not pursue a professional soccer career, his appreciation for the sport is evident. His unique journey from soccer to basketball illustrates the diverse paths athletes can take, and many fans will undoubtedly continue to support him in both endeavors.

Ultimately, while he may have shifted his focus to basketball, it is clear that soccer will always hold a special place in his heart. As the NBA season approaches, fans can look forward to seeing how his early experiences on the soccer field influence his skills on the court.