Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has emerged as a standout talent in the NBA, drawing significant parallels to legends such as Kobe Bryant. This season, he has led the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012, placing the franchise just three wins away from claiming its first championship title.
During the ongoing 2025 NBA Playoffs, Gilgeous-Alexander has demonstrated exceptional skill and has started to garner attention reminiscent of Bryant’s impactful playing style. The Thunder star expressed his aspirations to reach the same heights as Bryant, showcasing his humility despite the comparisons.
Teammate Jalen Williams has observed Gilgeous-Alexander’s growth and noted the similarities between the two players. He praised the way Gilgeous-Alexander incorporates aspects of Bryant’s gameplay into his own style, remarking on the hard work that underlies this development. Williams emphasized the importance of focusing on continuous improvement throughout the playoffs, echoing Gilgeous-Alexander’s commitment to bettering himself and the team.
In a recent video, fans noted Gilgeous-Alexander replicating some of Bryant’s signature moves, highlighting the enduring influence of the Lakers icon on today’s players. The homage paid by stars like Gilgeous-Alexander reflects the lasting legacy of Bryant in the league.
Additionally, if the Thunder secure the championship, Gilgeous-Alexander will achieve a rare milestone, joining Shaquille O’Neal as the only players to win the scoring title, the MVP award, and an NBA championship in the same season. This potential accomplishment adds to the excitement surrounding his promising career.
The narrative surrounding Gilgeous-Alexander is exciting, filled with promise for the future of both him and the Thunder as they seek to clinch their first title and honor Kobe Bryant’s legacy along the way.