Hamilton to hold rally for NBA MVP and champion Gilgeous-Alexander

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Canada’s king of the court has won just about everything possible this year, but is about to receive another honour.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who was born in Toronto but claims Hamilton as his home, will be recognized on Thursday Aug. 7 at “Shai Rally Day” in Hamilton.

Gilgeous-Alexander was named NBA MVP after finishing second last season (Steve Nash was the only Canadian to win the award previously), and helped Oklahoma City win its first NBA title last month after a stirring playoff run. He was also named NBA Finals MVP and led the league in scoring in the regular season.

Gilgeous-Alexander also took home the ESPY last week as best male athlete.

The rally will start at 3:30 p.m. at Hamilton Stadium, Hamilton mayor Andrea Horwath will present Gilgeous-Alexander with the key to the city there.

Later he’ll make an appearance at the Canadian Football League game between the Tiger-Cats and B.C. Lions.

“I’m absolutely thrilled to bring Shai Rally Day to Hamilton,” Horwath said in a release. “This is our city’s official celebration of NBA Champion, NBA MVP, NBA Finals MVP, NBA Scoring Champion, ESPY Best Athlete — Men’s Sports, and proud Hamiltonian, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.”

Gilgeous-Alexander makes his off-season home in Hamilton with his wife and son.

Previously, a mural and commemorative banner went up Gilgeous-Alexander’s former high school in Hamilton, Sir Allan MacNab Secondary.