VMAN kicks off its 54th issue, “A Day in the Life,” with none other than NBA powerhouse Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. One of the league’s top 10 players, Gilgeous-Alexander steps off the court and before the lens of Alvaro Beamud Cortés, while Nicola Formichetti curates a sleek wardrobe of Ferragamo for the feature.
Between moments of stillness and intensity, he opens up about his life, his game, and the ever-growing significance of personal style in sports.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for VMAN
Dressed in Ferragamo’s architectural designs, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander exudes effortless confidence. Fashion is more than just clothing for Gilgeous-Alexander—it’s a language. “I remember when I first got into the NBA, there weren’t many people who took a strong interest in fashion and putting well-thought-out outfits together every game,” he recalls.
“Fast forward to where we are now, and it’s night and day.” The tunnel fit has evolved, and Gilgeous-Alexander has embraced it as a way to showcase individuality. His approach to style reflects the same precision he applies to his craft on the court.
His mindset, both in fashion and in basketball, is built on resilience. “Failure helps you find areas of improvement. It makes you better,” Gilgeous-Alexander says. “One of my favorite quotes is: ‘I turned my Ls into lessons and my flaws into weapons.’ I love that quote and I live by it. Funny enough, I actually wrote it myself.”
Beyond the tunnel and the spotlight, Gilgeous-Alexander’s commitment extends to his team. “As unique as every individual is on the team, the way that we are able to seamlessly integrate our personalities with one another and mesh and gel both on and off the court blows my mind,” he says.
“There’s no ego on this team. We play for the greater good of the team as a whole. We have our fun moments, but we know when it’s time to lock in. We are a serious group.”
From game-winning plays to statement-making fits, Gilgeous-Alexander moves with precision, passion, and purpose. Whether clad in Ferragamo’s finest or locked in on the hardwood, his presence is undeniable—a force both in fashion and in the game.
