As soon as everybody got used to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's new buzzcut look over the summer, he threw a curveball. The two-time MVP winner attended 2026-27 NBA Media Day with his usual look — braids tucked underneath a solid-white headband.
Gilgeous-Alexander's return to his classic look had the NBA social media world abuzz. After shaving most of his hair off over the summer, how did he grow enough back to get his usual look? Especially after only a couple of months between public appearances.
Funny conspiracy theories swept across social media. At the end of NBA training camp, Gilgeous-Alexander revealed his secrets. Rubbing the back of his hand with a sly smile, the 28-year-old let out a small chuckle before answering one of the NBA world's
biggest recent mysteries.
"I don't have the exact name for it, but I have a few products," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "I guess I can send you pictures of it. Just gotta treat your hair right. Don't let it break."
Freshly turning 28 years old, Gilgeous-Alexander wanted a fresh look. Alas, his buzzcut era only lasted two games. Both of which were on Team Canada during the 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifier window. Back on the Oklahoma City Thunder, he went with his signature look. Was he surprised at how quickly it grew back?
"Nah," Gilgeous-Alexander said. "I know it grows this fast."
Well, there you have it, folks. I know there was a tongue-in-cheek hyperfixation with Gilgeous-Alexander's hairstyle over the summer. But it didn't take long for him to return to his old looks.
On a more serious note, the Oklahoma City Thunder continue to roll along. Only two weeks remain until they're part of Opening Night when they face the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, Oct. 20. The 2026-27 regular season is right around the corner. Their title hopes fall on Gilgeous-Alexander's shoulders.
SGA on his hairstyle change: “I don't have the exact name for it, but I have a few products.”
— Clemente Almanza (@CAlmanza1007) October 5, 2026
On if he’s surprised at how quickly his hair grew back: “Nah. I know it grew this fast.” pic.twitter.com/yj2G6fJts2
This article originally appeared on OKC Thunder Wire: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander explains viral hair change: 'I know it grows this fast'
