Shai Gilgeous-Alexander revealed that Steve Nash was the first person to tell him he would make it to the NBA.
Nash's encouragement came when Gilgeous-Alexander was playing for Team Canada's senior men's team at 16-17 years old.
Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged Nash's significant impact on his confidence level and NBA journey.
Gilgeous-Alexander is potentially on track to surpass Nash as the best Canadian basketball player ever.
Why this matters: Nash's influence highlights the importance of mentorship and early encouragement in an athlete's development. It also showcases the close-knit relationship between Canadian basketball stars.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's path to NBA stardom wasn't straightforward. He wasn't a highly-touted recruit coming out of high school, but he eventually landed at Kentucky. After a single collegiate season, he was drafted No. 11 overall in the 2018 NBA draft. Fast forward four seasons, and he transformed into a household name, becoming an All-Star and probable back-to-back MVP winner.
Gilgeous-Alexander fondly recalls his early interactions with Nash, who told the young guard that he was on the right path. This vote of confidence from an NBA legend significantly boosted his confidence.
"Funny enough, Steve was the first person to tell me I was gonna make the NBA. I played for Team Canada's senior men's team when I was 16-17 years old. He just told me to stay on this path and I'll be here one day," Gilgeous-Alexander said.
Both Gilgeous-Alexander and Nash share similar backgrounds and journeys to the top of the sport. As Gilgeous-Alexander continues to build his legacy, there's a real possibility he could surpass Nash as the greatest Canadian basketball player.
Q: How did Steve Nash influence Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's career?
Steve Nash was the first person to tell Shai Gilgeous-Alexander that he would make it to the NBA, boosting his confidence early in his career.
Q: What is the relationship between Gilgeous-Alexander and Nash?
Both players have a strong bond, with Gilgeous-Alexander crediting Nash as a mentor and source of inspiration.
Early encouragement from respected figures can significantly impact an athlete's career.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's success is a testament to his hard work and the positive influence of mentors like Steve Nash.
Gilgeous-Alexander is on track to potentially become the best Canadian basketball player in history.
Do you think Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will surpass Steve Nash as the greatest Canadian basketball player? Let us know!
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