Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander confirmed that he and his family are safe following a burglary at his Oklahoma City-area home last week. The incident occurred while the reigning NBA MVP was playing in a home game against the Washington Wizards. Gilgeous-Alexander emphasized the well-being of his loved ones in a statement after the Thunder's win over the New Orleans Pelicans.
The break-in at Gilgeous-Alexander's residence in Nichols Hills, a suburb of Oklahoma City, was reported around 7:45 p.m. on Thursday. At the time, the Thunder were hosting the Washington Wizards, where the 27-year-old Canadian guard scored 31 points and grabbed seven rebounds, helping his team secure a victory and improve to 6-0 on the season.
Police responded to the burglary call but stated that the suspects had fled before their arrival. "The suspects fled the area prior to police arrival," authorities said in a statement. "While no arrests have been made, there is no reason to believe the public is in any danger." Officials have not disclosed whether anyone was home during the incident or if any items were stolen. A message to Nichols Hills Police Chief Steven Cox was not immediately returned over the weekend.
Gilgeous-Alexander addressed the situation after the Thunder's game against the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday. "Long story short, everybody’s safe, and that’s all that really matters in the whole thing," he said. "Everything else will come and go, but my loved ones are safe, so I’m OK. I’m happy."
This burglary is part of a broader trend targeting professional athletes' homes across U.S. sports leagues. Similar incidents have affected NBA players like Luka Doncic, whose Dallas home was robbed of $30,000 in jewelry in December, as well as Mike Conley of the Minnesota Timberwolves and Bobby Portis of the Milwaukee Bucks. In the NFL, Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Joe Burrow have been victims, while NHL's Evgeni Malkin reported a break-in last February. Law enforcement has noted that thieves often strike on game days, using tactics like drones and signal blockers to target valuables such as jewelry and watches.
In response, the NBA issued warnings in November 2024, advising players to install advanced alarm systems, use safes for valuables, avoid posting home interiors online, and consider private security or guard dogs during travel.