Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is facing off against his cousin, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker, in the NBA Western Conference Finals. The cousins, who grew up together in Hamilton, Ontario, are making history as they compete against each other on the biggest stage in basketball.

Gilgeous-Alexander, 26, who was named this year's league MVP, told The Oklahoman that playing against his cousin is a "dream come true." "Stuff we've dreamt about for our whole lives, and it's crazy that it's come to fruition," he said.

The cousins have a close relationship, having lived together for two years in high school while teammates at Hamilton Heights Christian Academy. "We've been through every stage of life together," Gilgeous-Alexander said.

Despite the family connection, Gilgeous-Alexander vowed to hold nothing back in the series. "I'm gonna try to take his head off for sure," he said. Whoever wins the series, the cousins already know it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to play each other on the NBA's biggest stage.

A Family Affair

Gilgeous-Alexander's father, Vaughn Alexander, and Nickeil's mother, Nicole, were in attendance at Game 4, watching their sons go head-to-head. "I'm just so proud of both of them," Vaughn said.

The series has been intense, with the Thunder currently leading the Timberwolves 3-1. But regardless of the outcome, the cousins will always have the memory of competing against each other on the biggest stage in basketball.

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