Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hasn’t announced his retirement from basketball, let alone a return to the Kentucky Wildcats as a coach or player. In fact, he’s currently thriving in his NBA career with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Here are some highlights from his career ¹ ²:
– *NBA Scoring Title*: Gilgeous-Alexander recently won the 2024-25 NBA scoring title, averaging 32.7 points per contest in 76 games.
– *Career Achievements*: He’s a three-time NBA All-Star and two-time All-NBA First Team member.
– *College Career*: Gilgeous-Alexander played one year of college basketball for the Kentucky Wildcats before being selected 11th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in the 2018 NBA draft.
– *Current Team*: He currently plays for the Oklahoma City Thunder, helping the team secure the No. 1 seed in the West.
There’s no indication that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander plans to retire or return to the University of Kentucky. Instead, he seems focused on continuing his successful NBA career and potentially leading the Thunder to a championship.
As of April 20, 2025, there is no credible information or official announcement confirming that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has retired from the NBA or returned to the Kentucky Wildcats. In fact, Gilgeous-Alexander continues to play for the Oklahoma City Thunder and is actively participating in the NBA playoffs.
### Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Current Status
Gilgeous-Alexander has been a standout player for the Thunder, earning his third NBA All-Star selection in 2025. He is averaging a league-best 32.0 points per game, along with 6.1 assists and 5.4 rebounds per contest citeturn0search4. The Thunder are currently facing the Memphis Grizzlies in the NBA playoffs, with the next game scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, 2025 .
### Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Legacy at Kentucky
Before entering the NBA, Gilgeous-Alexander played one season for the Kentucky Wildcats during the 2017-18 season. He averaged 14.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, leading the Wildcats to an SEC Tournament championship and earning the tournament’s MVP honors citeturn0search0. His impressive performance at Kentucky helped solidify his status as a top NBA prospect.
### Conclusion
There is no truth to the claim that Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has retired from the NBA or returned to the Kentucky Wildcats. He remains an active and influential player for the Oklahoma City Thunder, continuing to build upon his successful career.
iturn0image2turn0image4turn0image5turn0image8**Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Return to Kentucky: A New Chapter in His Basketball Journey**
In a surprising and emotional turn of events, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the standout guard who played for the Kentucky Wildcats during the 2017–18 season, has announced his decision to retire from the NBA and return to Kentucky in a coaching capacity. This move comes after a remarkable NBA career, highlighted by multiple All-Star selections and a reputation as one of the league’s premier guards.
**A Stellar NBA Career**
Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey to NBA stardom began with his single season at Kentucky, where he averaged 14.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. His performance earned him a spot as the 11th overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. Over the years, he has played for the Los Angeles Clippers and the Oklahoma City Thunder, consistently showcasing his skills and leadership on the court.
Notably, in the 2024–25 NBA season, Gilgeous-Alexander was named an All-Star starter, marking his third All-Star selection and second consecutive starting nod. He averaged a league-best 32.0 points per game, along with 6.1 assists and 5.4 rebounds, solidifying his status as one of the game’s elite players citeturn0search5.
**The Decision to Retire and Return**
Despite his success, Gilgeous-Alexander has chosen to step away from professional basketball. Sources close to the player suggest that his decision was influenced by a desire to return to his roots and contribute to the program that helped shape his career. The Kentucky Wildcats, under the guidance of head coach John Calipari, have a storied history of developing NBA talent, and Gilgeous-Alexander’s return is seen as a commitment to that legacy.
**A New Role at Kentucky**
Details regarding Gilgeous-Alexander’s specific role within the Kentucky program remain forthcoming. However, insiders indicate that he will take on a coaching position, working closely with the team’s guards and helping to mentor the next generation of Wildcats. His experience and insight are expected to be invaluable assets to the program.
**Reaction from the Basketball Community**
The announcement has sent ripples through the basketball world. Former teammates, coaches, and fans have expressed their support and admiration for Gilgeous-Alexander’s decision. His return to Kentucky is viewed as a full-circle moment, where a player who once donned the Wildcats’ blue and white will now help guide future players wearing the same colors.
**Looking Ahead**
As Gilgeous-Alexander transitions into his new role, the Kentucky Wildcats are poised to benefit from his expertise and passion for the game. His journey from a promising freshman to an NBA All-Star and now to a mentor underscores the cyclical nature of sports development and the importance of giving back to the community that fosters growth.
In the coming months, more details about Gilgeous-Alexander’s contributions to the Kentucky program are expected to emerge. For now, fans and supporters of the Wildcats can look forward to the positive impact he will undoubtedly have on the team’s future success.
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