Thunder news: Sam Presti used The Tortoise and the Hare to turn Shai Gilgeous-Alexander into an MVP, NBA champion

In an interview with ESPN prior to the Oklahoma City Thunder's first game against San Antonio, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander discussed a unique gift from his general manager, Sam Presti. The star player remembered visiting Presti's office with expectations of a substantial reading assignment, but instead, Presti handed him a children's edition of "The Tortoise and the Hare."

Initially confused, Gilgeous-Alexander soon realized the executive's point was about individual development and building a contender requiring patience. This message resonated with Gilgeous-Alexander, especially during Oklahoma City's rebuilding phase after a 22-50 season and the subsequent addition of young talent like Luka Doncic, Trae Young, and Ja Morant.

Sam Presti's patience gave the Thunder room to grow, as evidenced by the team's financial commitment in 2021 when Gilgeous-Alexander signed a five-year, $172 million extension without a player option. By 2022-23, he averaged 31.4 points and earned his first All-Star selection. Oklahoma City's victory total climbed to 57, then 68, culminating in the 2024-25 championship and MVP honors for Gilgeous-Alexander.

Presti later presented the tortoise statue as a symbol connecting their initial conversations to the player's achievements. For Gilgeous-Alexander, the relationship rests on shared responsibility, with both acknowledging they are in this together.