In a blockbuster move that cements a rising dynasty in the West, reigning NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has agreed to a four-year, $285 million super maximum contract extension with the Oklahoma City Thunder, sources tell Shams Charania. The deal, which runs through the 2030-31 NBA season, features the highest annual average salary in league history.
This historic agreement not only locks in one of the league’s most electric and efficient scorers, but also signals Oklahoma City’s unwavering commitment to championship contention.
A Record-Breaking Contract
The extension averages a staggering $71.25 million per year, surpassing the previous high set by two-time MVP Nikola Jokić. This deal reflects Shai’s meteoric rise from promising rookie to the face of the franchise—and now, the highest-paid player in NBA history.
Gilgeous-Alexander, 27, is coming off a dazzling MVP campaign in which he led the Thunder to the #1 seed in the Western Conference and a trip to the Conference Finals. He averaged 31.4 points, 6.7 assists, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game, all while shooting over 51% from the field.
Thunder Building a Contender
OKC General Manager Sam Presti called the extension “a defining moment for the Thunder’s championship aspirations.”
“This is about more than money,” Presti said. “It’s about loyalty, leadership, and building something generational. Shai is everything we want this franchise to represent.”
Gilgeous-Alexander, originally acquired in the Paul George trade in 2019, has been instrumental in transforming the Thunder from a rebuilding project into a legitimate title contender. With rising stars like Chet Holmgren, Jalen Williams, and a deep bench, the Thunder are viewed by many as one of the NBA’s most promising young cores.
Shai Reacts
In a statement shared by the team, Shai said:
“Oklahoma City believed in me when few others did. This city, this team, and these fans are home. I’m not done—we’re not done. Let’s make history.”
What’s Next?
With their MVP now locked in, the Thunder shift focus toward rounding out their roster for a title run. Analysts expect OKC to pursue veteran depth and playoff experience to support their youthful nucleus.
Final Word: Thunder Strikes Rich
In a league where loyalty and legacy can often feel fleeting, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander just made it loud and clear: Oklahoma City is where greatness will rise. And with this record-setting deal, the Thunder’s storm is just beginning to roar.
