NBA

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander surprised by Drake’s appearance in Oklahoma City

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - DECEMBER 1: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder talks to Rapper, Drake after the game against the Houston Rockets on December 1, 2021 at Paycom Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2021 NBAE (Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images)

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored an impressive 39 points in a loss to Houston last night. But that was hardly the biggest headline of the night. Instead, the surprise appearance from famous rap artist Drake stole much of the show.

While his music career is his main claim to fame, Drake’s gained plenty of notoriety in other industries, including the NBA. As a Toronto native, Drake’s fandom of the Toronto Raptors has made him one of the league’s most notable celebrity fans.

However, very few could have expected him to attend a matchup between two lottery teams in early December. The celebrity appearance even came as a surprise to Gilgeous-Alexander, who laughed about it after the game.

“I’m not too sure. I guess [Drake] just wanted to come watch basketball.”

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Gilgeous-Alexander, commonly known by his initials, SGA, has grown into one of the league’s premier young stars. Through 19 games in 2021-22, he’s averaging 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. His jerky movements and smooth handle make him a tough assignment for most defenders.

Canadian connection

Such a player will naturally draw attention from fans and celebrities like Drake, even in a small market like Oklahoma City. But that was likely only a fraction of the reason why Drake showed up in attendance. Basketball aside, SGA and Drake share something else in common: they’re both from Toronto, Canada.

Drake’s known for showing love to all things Canada in the basketball world. Whether it be rooting for his beloved Toronto Raptors, lobbying for a Canadian WNBA team, or meeting up with Canadian hoops stars after the game, few celebrities take pride in their nationality as Drake does. His relationship with Gilgeous-Alexander is yet another example of that.

“We know each other. He loves hoops. I love music. He’s a good guy.”

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

While it’s unlikely Drake will attend another one of their home games anytime soon, the Thunder have their eyes set on bigger goals moving forward. After losing to Houston last night, Oklahoma City has a chance to bounce back versus Memphis tonight.

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