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The NBA has officially named Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young Players of the week for Week 20 of the 2024-25 season — and honestly, it’s hard to think of two more deserving players. Both superstars have been putting on a show, dominating the court and leading their teams to impressive wins.
Let’s break down their incredible performances and the impact they’ve had this season.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Scoring King of the West
It feels like every week, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander takes his game to another level — and this week was no exception. The Thunder’s superstar guard was unstoppable, averaging a mind-blowing 44.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game. Thanks to his explosive play, Oklahoma City finished the week with a perfect 4-0 record.
But SGA’s brilliance isn’t just a one-week thing — he’s been on a mission all season long.
2024-25 Season Highlights:
- League-leading 32.8 points per game: Shai has become the most lethal scorer in the NBA this season, constantly finding ways to put the ball in the basket.
- 53-11 record: The Thunder currently hold the best record in the Western Conference, and Shai’s elite play has been the driving force behind their success. They’ve already locked up the top seed, and with him at the helm, OKC looks like a serious title contender.
- Career-high 54-point game: On January 22, 2025, SGA went nuclear against the Utah Jazz, dropping a career-best 54 points in a performance that left fans and analysts speechless.
Night after night, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continues to prove why he’s one of the best players in the league — and his Player of the Week honors are just the latest recognition of his brilliance.
Trae Young: The East’s Ultimate Playmaker
Over in the Eastern Conference, Trae Young reminded everyone why he’s one of the best floor generals in the game. The Hawks’ star guard had a phenomenal week, averaging 24.5 points, 13.0 assists, and shooting an absurd 96.7% from the free-throw line. His ability to both score and create for his teammates helped Atlanta finish the week with a 3-1 record — keeping them right in the thick of the playoff race.
Young’s impact goes far beyond just one week, though — he’s been a consistent force all season long, and is more than deserving of just ONE player of the week award
2024-25 Season Highlights:
- 23.1 points and 11.9 assists per game: Young has been a walking double-double this season, balancing elite scoring with top-tier playmaking. His court vision and ability to create opportunities for his teammates are unmatched.
- 43-point explosion against Phoenix: On January 14, 2025, Young delivered one of his best performances of the season, torching the Suns for 43 points and showing just how dangerous he can be when he gets hot.
- 24-15 record: Thanks to Young’s leadership, the Hawks have solidified themselves as legitimate contenders in the East. With him running the show, Atlanta remains a team nobody wants to face come playoff time.
Trae Young continues to prove he’s not just one of the flashiest players in the NBA — he’s one of the most effective, too. His ability to control the tempo and make his teammates better makes him an invaluable part of the Hawks’ success.
Two Superstars, One Phenomenal Week
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Trae Young have both been on a tear this season, and their Week 20 performances only reinforced their importance to their respective teams. SGA’s scoring dominance and Young’s playmaking brilliance make them two of the most exciting players in the league — and as the playoffs approach, both are poised to lead their teams on deep postseason runs.
For now, though, they’ll bask in their well-deserved Players of the Week honours — and keep giving basketball fans everywhere a reason to tune in.
Which of these two stars do you think will make a bigger impact in the playoffs? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
