Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is used to making moves on the court, but this time, he’s making a big one off it. The Oklahoma City Thundersuperstar is parting ways with his longtime agent, Thad Foucher of Wasserman, and will now handle his own contract negotiations. The timing couldn’t be more interesting-SGA is eligible for a supermax extension this summer, a deal that could be worth nearly $300 million.

NBA journalist Chris Haynes first broke the news, reporting that while Gilgeous-Alexander will manage all on-court matters himself, his marketing and off-court ventures will still be handled by Simon G of I Love Management. It’s an unusual move, but not an unprecedented one. More players have started ditching traditional agents in recent years, opting to take control of their negotiations.

It’s hard to ignore the financial angle. With a supermax extension all but guaranteed, there’s little room for negotiation-meaning Gilgeous-Alexander can avoid paying agent fees while still locking in the biggest contract of his career. But handling business directly with the team also signals confidence. He’s betting on himself in a way that not many players do, and it could set a precedent for future stars.

The 26-year-old guard is in the midst of an MVP-level season, leading the league with 32.5 points per game and shooting an efficient 52.3% from the field. His dominance has propelled the Thunder into the top tier of the Western Conference, making his contract extension a no-brainer for Oklahoma City. The team wants him to stay, and he wants to be there-the only difference now is that he’ll be the one sitting across the table at negotiations.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joins the player empowerment era

Gilgeous-Alexander’s move puts him in an exclusive club of NBA players who have represented themselves, joining the likes of Kevin Durant and Deandre Ayton. While it might not be the right path for everyone, his decision reflects a growing shift in player empowerment, where athletes are seeking more control over their careers beyond just their play on the court.

Beyond his contract, SGA has been making headlines in other ways. During the NBA All-Star break, he unveiled his first-ever signature shoe, marking another milestone in his career. As he continues to elevate his game and brand, the decision to self-represent feels like another step toward fully shaping his own legacy-on his terms.

With the offseason looming and the Thunder poised to lock in their franchise player, all eyes will be on how this move plays out. Negotiating a potential $300 million deal without an agent is a major flex, but if anyone can pull it off, it’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.