In the high-stakes world of the NBA, where statistics and championships dominate headlines, Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander recently reminded everyone of the power of a strong personal foundation. During a major award ceremony, the All-Star guard shifted focus from his on-court brilliance to the woman behind his success, delivering a viral tribute to his wife, Hailey Summers.
A Viral Moment of Gratitude
While accepting the prestigious 2025 Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year award, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, known as SGA, dedicated his honour to his wife. He combined wit with deep emotion, stating, "I also want to dedicate this to my beautiful wife, Hailey. She’s my rock…I never want to be between a rock and a hard place, but as long as I’m with my Rock, it will never be a hard place." He humorously added that he opted for a witty remark to avoid another emotional breakdown, referencing a past instance where he cried on stage for ten minutes.
The Foundation: Hailey Summers
Far from the arena's glare, Hailey Summers has been the constant in Shai's life. Their story began long before NBA fame. The couple are high school sweethearts who went official in 2017. Hailey is a former NCAA Division I soccer player for the University of Albany. Their relationship reached key milestones with an engagement in 2023, marriage in 2024, and the birth of their first child, a son named Ares, in 2025.
Her unwavering support has been a cornerstone of Shai's journey, providing stability through his rise to becoming an MVP-calibre player for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2025-26 season. In his speech, Shai explicitly thanked her for her continuous sacrifices, highlighting the private dedication that fuels his public performance.
Priorities Rooted at Home
Even as the Thunder continue their pursuit of an NBA championship, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made it clear that his ultimate priorities are anchored in his family. This heartfelt acknowledgment offered fans a rare glimpse into the emotional safety net that allows him to play with such fearlessness and consistency. It presented a powerful blueprint for balance in the volatile world of professional sports, where personal stability often underpins professional excellence.
The viral moment underscores a significant narrative: behind Shai's dream-like 2024 season and sustained elite performance is a partnership built on years of mutual support, proving that his smoothest moves extend far beyond the basketball hardwood.
