OKC Thunder: ‘Captain Canada’ Nash, the perfect SGA role model

Nash the perfect doppelganger for Gilgeous-Alexander

Gilgeous-Alexander had hoped to play on the National Team this past summer but like Jamal Murray injury removed them from participating. His cousin Nickeil Alexander-Walker and teammate Luguentz Dort were on the squad coached by Nick Nurse. The team lost a heartbreaker in overtime at the Qualifying Tournament but the foundation of the new generation of Canadian basketball was on full display.

Moving forward, the OKC Thunder cornerstone expects to become fully involved in the national program. It’s very possible in 2024 when the Olympics are in Paris all 12 members of the roster could be NBA stars with SGA and Murray in the starting backcourt.

As for channeling Nash, the Nets coach didn’t make his biggest mark in the sport until his ninth season. Meaning there is ample time for SGA to join him in the history books both in the league and back at home.

While Nash may serve as a benchmark for the former Wildcat, it’s clear he is a student of the game. SGA also paid homage to former OKC Thunder teammates Chris Paul and Dennis Schroder in the GQ article speaking of how he became a sponge to absorb all the lessons they could teach. He also cited Allen Iverson as a fashion influence, but those smooth glides he makes to the basket indicate it was more than A.I.s togs the youngster was paying attention to.

For many of the current young stars in the NBA, Kobe Bryant was the superstar they most wanted to emulate along with his Black Mamba attitude. While there is no denying the greatness of Bryant, it feels appropriate that Shai would select the understated quiet brilliance of Nash as his doppelganger.

Ultimately, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander may never replace Nash’s title of Mr. Canada but with his work ethic, he could give his idol a run for best Canadian basketball player ever.

Thunder Nation is the lucky fan base who gets to watch it happen!