"Everybody sitting around him is in foul trouble": Shane Gillis doesn't hesitate to shoot an FT joke on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander at ESPYs

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was present with some of his OKC Thunder teammates inside the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles for the ESPYs on Wednesday. The Thunder superstar, fresh off a championship, won the best NBA player award.

ESPYs host Shane Gillis could not resist making a joke while acknowledging Gilgeous-Alexander’s presence.

“SGA is here. Give it up for SGA. How are you, bro? And now, everybody sitting around him is in foul trouble."

Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.

Gillis' joke was a reference to Gilgeous-Alexander’s free-throw numbers. The point guard has led the NBA in made free throws over the past three seasons. In the 2025 playoffs, he attempted 391 freebies and made 201, both league-best numbers.

However, a section of fans have called him a "free-throw merchant" and accused him of foul-baiting. A few coaches in the NBA also expressed their frustration with Gilgeous-Alexander's tactics. Minnesota Timberwolves coach Chris Finch complained about the issue last season.

Indiana Pacers coach Rick Carlisle planned against SGA in the 2025 NBA Finals. The coach recognized the point guard's ability to get to the free-throw line as a crucial ingredient to the OKC Thunder's offense. Still, Carlisle refused to label him as a superstar who looks for fouls. The coach said SGA deserved the MVP award, which he won over three-time winner Nikola Jokic.

Gilgeous-Alexander also earned the NBA Finals MVP award and topped the league in scoring. He became the first player since Shaquille O'Neal in 2000 to win all three awards.

Fans react to Shane Gillis' joke about Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

With thousands watching the ESPYs, Shane Gillis' joke about Shai Gilgeous-Alexander quickly went viral.

Most fans thought Shane Gillis' joke was right on the money. To the point guard's credit, he took Gillis' joke in stride and barely reacted.

About the author

Michael Macasero brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his coverage of basketball at Sportskeeda with over 18 years of diverse work experience. This includes stints at Convergys, Interpace and RunRepeat.

Michael's background in English and Journalism has provided him with the analytical skills and precision necessary for creating content, and he is a lifelong fan of the Boston Celtics. His favorite players include legends like Larry Bird and Michael Jordan, modern stars like Tim Duncan, and Nikola Jokic, as well as emerging talent like Victor Wembanyama.

Michael respects Gregg Popovich, despite his contentious demeanor in interviews, and recognizes Popovich's genius in adapting his coaching style to maximize the talent on his roster over the years. Michael eagerly anticipates seeing how Popovich will structure the offense around emerging talent like Victor Wembanyama.

Understanding the story and details is crucial to Michael's reporting philosophy and he believes overlooking details, particularly when pressed for time, can lead to misunderstandings and inaccurate conclusions.

Aside from work, Michael's children are his hobbies, and he also likes to go running, swimming and weightlifting.

Know More

OKC Thunder Fan? Check out the latest OKC Thunder depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.

Edited by Michael Macasero