Charmaine Gilgeous, Mother of NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Hospitalized Following Health Scare

Toronto, ON – May 21, 2025 — In the midst of celebration surrounding Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s historic MVP win, the Gilgeous family has been struck by an unexpected and somber development. Charmaine Gilgeous, mother of the NBA superstar and former Olympian herself, has been hospitalized in Toronto following what sources describe as a “sudden and serious health scare.”

According to family spokespersons, Charmaine, 56, was rushed to Mount Sinai Hospital late Tuesday evening after reportedly collapsing at home. Though the exact nature of her condition has not been publicly disclosed, early reports suggest it may be cardiac-related. Medical staff confirm that she is currently in stable condition and under close observation in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.

Shai, who just days ago became the first Canadian since Steve Nash to win the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award, left Oklahoma City this morning to be at his mother’s side. “My mom has always been my foundation,” Shai said in a brief statement. “All of my strength comes from her. Right now, I need to be with her, just like she’s always been with me.”

Charmaine Gilgeous, a former 400-meter sprinter who competed for Antigua and Barbuda in the 1992 Summer Olympics, has long been recognized not only for her athletic legacy but also for her role in shaping Shai’s discipline and mindset. Her tough, no-nonsense parenting style became the stuff of legend among fans after Shai famously quipped in a 2019 interview, “She tells me I suck every day — it keeps me grounded.”

News of her hospitalization has drawn an outpouring of support from across the sports world. Fellow NBA players, former Olympians, and thousands of fans took to social media to send messages of hope and solidarity.

The Oklahoma City Thunder organization released a statement expressing its full support: “The thoughts and hearts of the entire Thunder family are with Shai and his loved ones. We stand with him during this difficult time.”

As the sports world rallies around the Gilgeous family, many are reminded that even amid the brightest lights of professional success, life remains profoundly human. Shai’s MVP trophy may now rest on a mantle, but for the young superstar, the only thing that matters right now is his mother’s recovery.

Further updates on Charmaine Gilgeous’ condition are expected in the coming days.