Canadian basketball star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has once again reached the pinnacle of national sporting recognition. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard was named The Canadian Press Male Athlete of the Year for 2025, an award announced on December 27, 2025. This marks the second time the Hamilton, Ontario native has received this honour, solidifying his status as one of Canada's most dominant and consistent athletic performers.
A Season of Excellence Secures the Honour
The award comes on the heels of another spectacular year for Gilgeous-Alexander in the National Basketball Association. His elite play has been a driving force behind the Oklahoma City Thunder's success, making them a formidable contender in the Western Conference. The guard's unique combination of size, skill, and basketball IQ has made him nearly unguardable, as evidenced by his high-scoring performances and clutch plays throughout the 2025 season.
While the original news announcement did not list specific seasonal statistics, the context is clear: this award is given to the Canadian male athlete who has demonstrated superior achievement over the past year. For Gilgeous-Alexander to win it for a second time, he undoubtedly outperformed a field of the nation's top talents across all sports. His selection speaks volumes about his sustained excellence and impact at the highest level of professional basketball.
Joining an Elite Group of Canadian Icons
Winning the CP Male Athlete of the Year award twice places Gilgeous-Alexander in rare company. The award has a storied history, previously honouring legends like Wayne Gretzky, Steve Nash, and Joey Votto. To have his name etched on the trophy again confirms that his career trajectory is among the greatest in modern Canadian sports history. It is a testament not just to his raw talent, but to his work ethic, leadership, and ability to perform under pressure on the global stage.
The announcement was made by The Canadian Press and disseminated across the country. It was part of a series of year-end athletic awards, which also saw swimmer Summer McIntosh named the CP Female Athlete of the Year. This highlights a tremendous period for Canadian sports, with athletes excelling internationally in multiple disciplines.
What This Means for Canadian Basketball
Gilgeous-Alexander's continued success has a ripple effect far beyond his personal accolades. He serves as the cornerstone and inspiration for a golden generation of Canadian basketball talent. His MVP-calibre play in the NBA provides a tangible blueprint for aspiring young athletes across the country, proving that Canadians can not only reach the league but can become its premier superstars.
His second Athlete of the Year win reinforces basketball's growing prominence in the Canadian sporting landscape. As he continues to lead the Thunder and the Canadian national team, his influence will likely inspire future awards and championships. For now, the focus remains on celebrating a remarkable athlete who has, for the second time, been voted by sports journalists across Canada as the nation's very best.
