The reigning NBA MVP faced the media candidly, noting that past accomplishments are already behind the squad. “It would suck to lose the NBA championship in 2026. That’s the new focus. That’s the new goal,” Shai said.

For Gilgeous-Alexander, the approach is regeneration—not simply relishing the title, but raising the collective standard for another run. “Our approach remains the same: improve daily and concentrate on what we can control each day,” he said.

Focus on Preparation and Work Ethic

Beyond ambition, Gilgeous-Alexander reiterated the mental and physical demands required to repeat as champions.

Crediting his rise to perseverance rather than natural gifts, he described his game as the product of relentless effort: “I was never an athlete with extraordinary gifts; I had to earn my place. I meticulously shaped myself into the player I am today, which I hold in high regard, ensuring that I continuously work on my craft,” Shai told reporters.

The Thunder’s star has maintained his regimen throughout the offseason, staying driven by the process rather than the accolades.

Leadership and Team Chemistry

Gilgeous-Alexander also stressed the team’s chemistry: “Any winning play that I can make, I will try to make it. This organization, the team that we have, they make it easy. So all we have to do is compete and stay together,” he said, positioning himself as a leader by example.

As the Thunder prepare for a season with more national attention and greater expectations, Shai remains the steady presence anchoring their defense of the Larry O’Brien Trophy, refusing complacency, targeting excellence, and vowing to keep the focus on growth.

Shai’s words made one thing certain: Oklahoma City’s championship culture is built, not inherited, and its leader already has his sights set on the challenges ahead.