Ex-NBA Player Makes Bold Statement on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Thunder Legacy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By JH Kubicek | Last updated May 23, 2025 3:40 PM ET

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander became the third player in the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise history to win the MVP award, joining Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. While Durant's scoring prowess and Westbrook's loyalty and triple-doubles had endeared them to the franchise when they played, SGA is on his way to winning the city its first title.

In 2013, Westbrook and Durant led the Thunder to its sole NBA Finals appearance, but they lost to LeBron James and the Miami Heat. Gilegous-Alexander and the Thunder have a 2-0 lead over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals, but they haven't won a title yet.

If the MVP hoists a Larry O'Brien Trophy at the end of the season, Durant and Westbrook might be passed up.

"No disrespect to Russ or KD, but if SGA brings them a championship, I would have to say he's probably the greatest Thunder of all time," said Georges Niang.

Gilegous-Alexander, unlike Durant, seems loyal to the city, and unlike Westbrook, has proven that his play style can lead a winning team.

SGA could definitively become OKC's if his historic season ends with a title...

"It's hard not to think this dude is the greatest Thunder of all-time. As good as Russ was...Kevin Durant, and James Harden, this guy's a different level when you win a championship."… pic.twitter.com/CAsCpxiqTc
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) May 23, 2025

"It's hard not to think that this dude is the greatest Thunder of all time," added Chandler Parsons. "As good as Russ was with the MVP, triple-doubles, and Kevin Durant, and James Harden, this guy's a different level when you win a championship. Especially in this city, in this market. He will mean everything to them."

The Thunder boast only one major sports team, and they haven't won a title despite having some all-time talent. SGA could be the first star to get them over the hump.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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