That growth mindset is an essential element of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s character, which Presti valued as much as his talent. Presti wanted to invest in Gilgeous-Alexander in large part because of “gifts that amplify or make his athletic abilities that much more transcendent,” citing intelligence and emotional awareness of others in the organization and community. “Shai puts the wind at everybody’s back with the way he operates,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said. “There’s literally no facet, no corner of the building that he doesn’t put in a position of strength because of the way that he operates as a superstar player. He can act however he wants to act, as we’ve seen in the NBA and other sports, and he chooses to act with unbelievable humility and character. It puts everybody in a position of strength, including Sam. With Sam, obviously that’s a two-way relationship.”
