Amid all the cheers and confetti of the Oklahoma City Thunder’s first-ever NBA championship celebration, it wasn’t just the trophy or MVP speeches that had fans talking.
A quiet, thoughtful moment from Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who had just been named Finals MVP, caught the attention of fans everywhere.
During the postgame celebrations on the court, center Isaiah Hartenstein held his baby son, Elijah, who was fast asleep despite the roaring crowd inside the Paycom Center.
While ESPN’s Lisa Salters interviewed players and fans cheered, Gilgeous-Alexander, standing nearby, noticed something small but important: Elijah’s head wasn’t fully supported.
In a gentle move, Gilgeous-Alexander reached over and tried to prop up the baby’s head, making sure he was safe and comfortable in his dad’s arms. The moment, captured on video and shared by ESPN's official Instagram account, quickly went viral.
Fans couldn’t get enough of the subtle gesture.
“Shai thinkin like a dad when they just won is unsurprisingly funny to me. Good dude, good team. Congrats,” one commenter joked.
“He had the grandma attitude face like ‘hold that baby head’ ð,” another added.
“LOL his grandma taught him that. HOLD THAT BABY HEAD UP ð,” someone wrote.
Others praised his instincts, saying, “Paternal instincts kicking in ❤️𥔠and “The Family Man ðð§¡ð⚡.”
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Gilgeous-Alexander had every reason to focus only on the win. He led the Thunder to a 103–91 Game 7 victory over the Indiana Pacers, finishing with 29 points, five rebounds and 12 assists.
Hartenstein, who contributed seven points, nine rebounds, and four assists in the game, laughed about his son sleeping through all the noise.
“I don’t know why he’s asleep right now, but I guess it’s not loud enough, so I’m going to need you to get a little louder,” he joked during the on-court interview. “I’ll tell him about it tomorrow.”
Elijah may not remember this night, but thanks to Gilgeous-Alexander’s simple act and the internet’s reaction, the world definitely will.