Once a Wildcat, Forever an MVP: Kentucky Honors Shai Gilgeous-Alexander with Full-Page Tribute in The Oklahoman
LEXINGTON, KY & OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – The University of Kentucky, a program synonymous with basketball excellence, has issued a powerful and heartfelt tribute to one of its own, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, with a full-page advertisement in The Oklahoman. The impactful message, emblazoned with the proud declaration “Once a Wildcat, Forever an MVP,” celebrates Gilgeous-Alexander’s recent monumental achievement of being named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player for the 2024-25 season.
The decision by Kentucky Athletics to take out a prominent tribute in Oklahoma City’s leading newspaper is a clear testament to the strong and enduring bond between the university and its former stars. It’s a public acknowledgement that while Gilgeous-Alexander now shines brightest for the Oklahoma City Thunder, his roots in Lexington are deeply cherished.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP campaign was nothing short of spectacular. He led the NBA in scoring with an astounding 32.7 points per game, guiding the Thunder to the league’s best regular-season record (68-14) and leading them deep into the Western Conference playoffs. His season was marked by consistent brilliance, remarkable efficiency, and a newfound level of leadership that transformed the young Thunder squad into a legitimate championship contender. His exceptional two-way play, combining elite scoring with impactful defense, garnered him 71 first-place votes for the coveted award.
For the Kentucky faithful, Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP honor is a source of immense pride. Though he spent just one season as a Wildcat (2017-18), his impact was undeniable. He averaged 14.4 points and 5.1 assists, was named the SEC Tournament MVP, and played a crucial role in leading Kentucky to an SEC Tournament Championship. His trajectory from a promising college guard to an NBA MVP has been a masterclass in development and dedication, reflecting the very ethos of the Kentucky basketball program.
- The tribute in The Oklahoman serves as a powerful reminder that the “Wildcat family” extends far beyond the confines of Rupp Arena. It celebrates not only Gilgeous-Alexander’s individual brilliance but also the collective legacy of a program that consistently produces NBA talent, many of whom, like SGA, go on to achieve the highest honors in professional basketball. It’s a message of pride, support, and a timeless connection, affirming that once you wear the blue and white, you are indeed, forever a Wildcat.
