NBA Star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Overcome with Emotion as He Thanks Wife Hailey in Heartfelt MVP Speech

Published: May 22, 2025

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Oklahoma City Thunder guard, was overcome with emotion as he thanked his wife Hailey Summers in a heartfelt speech after being named the NBA's Most Valuable Player on Wednesday, May 21.

The 26-year-old broke down in tears as he described the impact Hailey has had on his life, saying, "I wouldn't be the man I am, I wouldn't be the player I am, I wouldn't be the father I am without you, so thank you for that."

Hailey, who was in the audience with their 1-year-old son Ares Alexander on her lap, was visibly emotional as Shai praised her for showing him what love and sacrifice truly mean.

Shai, who led the league with 32.7 points per game on 51.9% shooting, also thanked his teammates, saying, "I made tremendous strides, but I never thought this was going to happen. I dreamt about it as a kid, but as a kid, it's a fake dream."

He also revealed that he bought Rolexes for his teammates as a token of appreciation before the announcement.

The newly crowned MVP will next focus on Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals, where the Thunder hopes to take a 2-0 lead against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Thursday, May 22.

Read more about Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's journey to becoming an NBA star, including his family life and his rise to fame.