Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Praised for "Clever" Play by Champion Coach

Golden State Warriors' Steve Kerr commends Thunder star's ability to draw fouls within the rules.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has earned a reputation as one of the NBA's best players, in large part due to his reliable scoring and ability to get to the free-throw line. Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr praised Gilgeous-Alexander's "clever" play style, acknowledging that the reigning MVP knows how to draw contact and fouls within the rules of the game.

Why it matters

Gilgeous-Alexander's skill at drawing fouls has been a point of discussion, with some critics arguing that it's an exploitative tactic. However, Kerr's comments suggest that the champion coach sees it as a legitimate and effective part of the modern NBA game, and that it's up to defenders to adjust their approach when matched up against the Thunder star.

The details

Gilgeous-Alexander's long strides and natural control over his pace allow him to get past defenders and initiate contact, leading to frequent trips to the free-throw line. This is a skill that has been present in the arsenals of many NBA superstars over the years, from Kobe Bryant to Michael Jordan. Kerr recognizes that Gilgeous-Alexander is simply excelling at this part of the game, and that it's a valuable tool in the reigning MVP's toolkit.

  • Gilgeous-Alexander has displayed this skill since he was a young player in the NBA.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Oklahoma City Thunder superstar and reigning regular-season and Finals MVP, known for his reliable scoring and ability to draw fouls.

Steve Kerr

The head coach of the Golden State Warriors, a respected figure in the NBA who recognizes and appreciates Gilgeous-Alexander's "clever" play style.

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What they’re saying

“He's incredibly clever. He knows exactly how to draw contact. It's all within the rules. I don't have a problem with Shai. I have a problem with the rules. More power to the individual players.”

— Steve Kerr, Head Coach, Golden State Warriors (Sporting News)

The takeaway

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's ability to draw fouls and get to the free-throw line is a valuable skill that has been present in the arsenals of many NBA superstars over the years. While some may criticize it as an exploitative tactic, champion coach Steve Kerr recognizes it as a legitimate and effective part of the modern NBA game, placing the onus on defenders to adjust their approach when matched up against the Thunder star.