Not Drawing As Many Fouls As Michael Jordan”: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Father Shuts Down “Free Throw Merchant” Allegations…

In the modern NBA, where player efficiency is scrutinized down to the decimal and free throw attempts can spark heated debates, one star has found himself in the eye of a trending critique: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard, fresh off an MVP-caliber season, has drawn both praise and criticism for his ability to get to the line. But the recent narrative branding him a “free throw merchant” has prompted a sharp response—from his own father.

Charismatic and vocal in his support of his son, Vaughn Gilgeous took to social media and local interviews this week to set the record straight. His message? “Shai’s not even drawing as many fouls as Michael Jordan did in his prime. So let’s keep the accusations grounded in reality.”

The Free Throw Debate

Gilgeous-Alexander, often lauded for his surgical footwork and unshakable poise in the paint, has become a master at baiting defenders into tough spots. In the 2024–25 season, he averaged over 9 free throw attempts per game—good for top five in the league. While that statistic is typically a marker of aggression and effectiveness, some critics and fans online have downplayed his scoring accomplishments, accusing him of “gaming” the system rather than dominating it.

These claims sparked a wave of memes and hashtags across social media, labeling him a “free throw merchant,” a term used pejoratively to describe players who allegedly rely more on referee whistles than actual skill to accumulate points.

Vaughn Gilgeous Fires Back

In an interview with *TSN Radio*, Vaughn Gilgeous didn’t mince words:
*”When I see people diminishing Shai’s skill by calling him a free throw merchant, it’s laughable. The greats all got to the line—Jordan, Kobe, LeBron. That’s part of being unguardable. And let’s be clear—Shai’s not even drawing as many fouls as Michael Jordan did when defenses were rougher and the rules weren’t as favorable to offensive players.”*

He went on to emphasize the nuance in Shai’s game, pointing out that his ability to manipulate pace, change directions, and absorb contact is more artistry than exploitation.

Historical Context: MJ and the Free Throw Line

The comparison to Michael Jordan isn’t far-fetched. In the 1986–87 season, Jordan averaged a staggering 11.9 free throw attempts per game. Throughout his career, he was regularly among league leaders in trips to the stripe. What separated him was the respect he commanded from defenders—and referees—due to his relentless drive and skill. Shai’s father argues that his son, too, is commanding that respect.

### Players and Analysts Weigh In

Former players like JJ Redick and Jamal Crawford have come to SGA’s defense as well. “Getting to the line is a skill,” Crawford tweeted. “It means you’re putting pressure on the defense. If they have to foul you, you’re doing your job.”

ESPN analyst Doris Burke added during a recent broadcast: *“There’s a difference between flopping and forcing contact through elite footwork. Shai’s doing the latter, and he’s doing it better than almost anyone in the league.”*

### What’s Next for Shai?

Despite the online chatter, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander isn’t losing sleep. If anything, he’s letting his play do the talking. As the Thunder look to make a deep postseason run, he remains focused on winning—not on defending his style of scoring.

In the words of his father: “Keep talking about the free throws. We’ll keep counting the wins.”