Image Source: X
[Saba Sports News] The Alexander family is officially divided—for now, at least.
Cousins Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will set aside their close-knit bond as they face off in the Western Conference Finals.
Alexander-Walker’s Minnesota Timberwolves are taking on Gilgeous-Alexander’s Oklahoma City Thunder, and the family connection runs deep: Nickeil’s mother, Nicole, is the sister of Shai’s father, Vaughn.
Ahead of Game 1 in Oklahoma City, Alexander-Walker shared a funny moment that highlighted the friendly rivalry brewing at home. “After Sunday, my mom called me and told me she texted his dad saying, ‘Oh, it’s war now,’” he told reporters with a smile.
Still, the Timberwolves guard emphasized that the family is cherishing the moment. “It’s all love at the end of the day,” he said. “It’s a really cool feeling. Every time I check my phone, that’s all I see — messages from friends and family back home. I think 10, 20 years from now, I’ll really be able to appreciate how special this is.”
“For now,” he added, “the only thing I care about is the Wolves getting four wins.”
Shai and Nickeil share a deep history. Both grew up in Toronto and were more like brothers than cousins. They played together at Hamilton Heights Christian Academy in Tennessee and even lived together at their coach’s home during high school.
While Gilgeous-Alexander has risen to MVP-caliber stardom, Alexander-Walker has carved out a key role on a title-contending team.
Only one cousin can move on to the NBA Finals, but given their journey from backyard battles to the Western Conference Finals, it’s safe to say both Alexanders are already winning.