{
  "id": 11238828,
  "title": "Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hoping to be 'more well-rounded' in possible off-ball role",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/01/shai-gilgeous-alexander-hoping-to-be-more-well-rounded-in-possible",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-01T17:00:19.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/shai-gilgeous-alexander-hoping-more-170019647.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the two-time MVP winner, is considering playing an off-ball role for the Oklahoma City Thunder in the upcoming 2026-27 NBA season. During the 2026 NBA Media Day, the 28-year-old hinted at his desire to become a more well-rounded player. \"Every season and every offseason, I use it to try to find ways to become a more well-rounded basketball player,\" Gilgeous-Alexander stated. Over the offseason, the Thunder have assembled a roster filled with talented ball-handlers and scorers, including Jalen Williams, Ajay Mitchell, Cason Wallace, Jared McCain, and Bennett Stirtz. This shift towards a more dynamic halfcourt offense could benefit Gilgeous-Alexander, as it would provide him with opportunities to conserve his energy and reduce the physical toll of regular season play. By being more self-reliant on offense, Gilgeous-Alexander may enter the 2027 NBA playoffs with a fresh mind and body, which could give the Thunder an edge in their pursuit of a second championship in three years.",
  "summary": "Shai Gilgeous-Alexander hoping to be 'more well-rounded' in possible off-ball role.",
  "key_points": [
    "Shai Gilgeous-Alexander aims to be more well-rounded player.",
    "Thunder roster includes Jalen Williams, Ajay Mitchell, Cason Wallace.",
    "Off-ball role could reduce physical toll on Gilgeous-Alexander."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}