John Calipari says he’ll tell story of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s development ‘for the rest of my career’
By Adam Spencer
Published:
On Monday night, Kentucky freshman PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander appeared on SportsCenter and made the expected announcement that he would enter the 2018 NBA Draft and hire an agent.
Entering the season, Gilgeous-Alexander wasn’t even the starter for the Wildcats at point guard, but he developed into an absolute star and is a likely lottery pick in the June draft.
Following SGA’s decision, coach John Calipari released a statement on the talented guard, saying he’ll use Gilgeous-Alexander as an example for Kentucky players for years to come (via ASeaOfBlue.com):
“Shai’s development is a story I’ll tell our players for the rest of my career,” Calipari said. “When we talk about building your own confidence and conquering yourself, Shai is the perfect example. You’re talking about a kid who had the physical tools and had the potential to be in this position, but he elevated his game because he woke up at 7 a.m. every day to work out, was the best in the weight room, watched film and never missed class.
“I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I’ve never met a kid who is undisciplined off the court be disciplined on it. Shai’s entire life is disciplined, and it’s not forced by others around him. He’s done this because he’s put in the work, and it’s that attitude and mindset that will ensure his success at the next level. I couldn’t be more proud of him and I know that whatever team gets him is going to get a young man that will bring a winning mentality.”
Gilgeous-Alexander won the SEC Tournament’s MVP award for leading the Wildcats to their fourth-straight tourney title.
He has a frame NBA scouts will love, and it will be interesting to see which team calls his name during the first round of the draft.
Adam is a daily fantasy sports (DFS) and sports betting expert. A 2012 graduate of the University of Missouri, Adam now covers all 16 SEC football teams. He is the director of DFS, evergreen and newsletter content across all Saturday Football brands.
