After high school, Shai attended the University of Kentucky where he played basketball for one year as a freshman. He was a breakout star on the team, averaging 14.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game. Shai was named to the SEC All-Freshman team and helped lead his team to the NCAA Tournament.
In 2018, Shai declared for the NBA draft and was selected eleventh overall by the Charlotte Hornets. However, he was immediately traded to the Los Angeles Clippers for Miles Bridges. Shai’s rookie season was impressive as he helped the Clippers make the playoffs and averaged 10.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. His solid performance earned him a spot on the NBA All-Rookie Second Team.
In his second season, Shai was traded to the Oklahoma City Thunder as part of a deal that sent Paul George to the Clippers. Shai’s performance continued to improve as he became a starter for the Thunder, averaging 19.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game. He also set a career-high of 32 points in a game against the Phoenix Suns. Shai’s success on the court earned him a spot on the NBA Rising Stars team during All-Star weekend.
Shai’s unique physical features also make him stand out from other NBA players. He has a strikingly long wingspan of 6’11”, making him one of the longest players in the league. He is also known for his trademark hairstyle, a thick afro that he keeps meticulously groomed.
Off the court, Shai is known for his humility and work ethic. He has a strong relationship with his family, particularly with his grandmother who played a significant role in his upbringing. Shai often speaks about the importance of family in his life and credits them for his success.
In addition to basketball, Shai is also involved in social justice issues. He has spoken out about police brutality and has been an active voice in supporting Black Lives Matter. Shai also launched the “SGA Foundation” in 2020, a non-profit organization that supports underserved communities in Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Looking to the future, Shai is poised to become one of the most dominant players in the NBA. His unique combination of skill and physical attributes make him a force to be reckoned with on the court. As he continues to improve and develop his game, it is likely that we will see him become a perennial All-Star and one of the most exciting players to watch in the league.