HAMILTON, Ontario (AP) — NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was given the key to Hamilton city by Mayor Andrea Horwath during a public event at Hamilton Stadium on Thursday.
The mayor also shared that a street in Hamilton will be named after the Oklahoma City Thunder star, who led his team to win the NBA championship after an amazing season.
Shai spoke to a cheering crowd in the stadium’s north end zone while holding the NBA trophy above his head. He said, “Whenever I traveled around the world, people always asked where I was from. I was proud to say I’m from Hamilton.
“Hamilton is special and different from other cities in Ontario. People here have strong grit, determination, pride, and energy. I carry that spirit with me every day, everywhere I go. So, you can imagine how happy I was to hear that I’d get the key to my city and have a street named after me.”
Gilgeous-Alexander came back to the stadium on Thursday night. He was honored at the start of the second quarter during the CFL game between the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the B.C. Lions.
FAQ
Who is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander?
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a professional basketball player who stars for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA.
What honor did Shai Gilgeous-Alexander receive in Hamilton, Ontario?
He was presented with the key to the city of Hamilton, Ontario, as a recognition of his achievements and connection to his hometown.
When did Shai Gilgeous-Alexander receive the key to Hamilton?
He was honored on a Thursday night during a CFL game between the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the B.C. Lions.
Why was he honored with the key to the city?
The honor was to celebrate his success as a professional athlete and to acknowledge his roots and impact on the community.
Did Shai Gilgeous-Alexander attend any event during the honor?
Yes, he returned to the stadium and was recognized at the start of the second quarter of the CFL game.