In an extraordinary act of generosity that has captured the hearts of fans across the nation, **Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander** has once again proven that his impact goes far beyond the basketball court. The 26-year-old NBA All-Star has **donated a remarkable $7.2 million** to help **build and expand shelters for homeless individuals and families throughout the Oklahoma City area**.
The donation, made through his foundation, **“SGA Cares,”** will directly fund the construction of **three new housing facilities**, as well as the renovation of existing shelters that serve hundreds of displaced men, women, and children each month. The initiative, titled **“Project New Start,”** aims to not only provide safe shelter but also offer job placement programs, mental health counseling, and educational workshops to help residents rebuild their lives.
At a press conference held at the Oklahoma City Civic Center, Shai spoke passionately about the motivation behind his latest philanthropic effort.
> “Basketball gave me a platform — but giving back gives me purpose,” Shai said. “Oklahoma City has shown me so much love since the day I arrived. This city is my home, and no one in my home should be without a roof or a second chance.”
The donation comes just months after SGA was named the **NBA’s Community Impact Award recipient** for his ongoing efforts to support youth education and health programs. His new project is being praised as one of the **largest private contributions to homelessness initiatives** in Oklahoma state history.
Thunder head coach **Mark Daigneault** called the move “a reflection of who Shai truly is — a leader on and off the floor.”
> “He’s not just our star player; he’s one of the most genuine human beings I’ve ever met,” Daigneault said. “He’s using his success to lift people up, and that’s what real leadership looks like.”
According to city officials, the shelters funded by SGA’s donation will be strategically located across Oklahoma City — near downtown, south OKC, and the northwest district — to maximize accessibility for those in need. Each facility will feature clean housing units, medical care access, career development centers, and youth activity spaces.
Mayor **David Holt** expressed deep gratitude to the Thunder star, stating:
> “What Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has done here today will change lives for generations. This is more than charity — it’s a legacy of compassion.”
Fans quickly took to social media to celebrate their beloved star, with hashtags like **#SGACares**, **#ShaiGivesBack**, and **#ThunderHeart** trending within hours. One fan wrote, *“He’s the MVP in more ways than one. Oklahoma is lucky to have him.”*
SGA’s commitment to the community has long been a cornerstone of his public image. Over the past few years, he has quietly supported several local charities, schools, and youth programs, often without seeking publicity. But this latest initiative represents his boldest and most impactful gesture yet.
> “If we can build courts, we can build homes,” Shai concluded. “And if we can build homes, we can build hope.”
With his remarkable $7.2 million contribution, **Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has once again proven that greatness isn’t just measured by stats or trophies — but by the lives you touch along the way.**
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