With star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and 35 draft picks (15 first rounders and 17 second rounders) over the next seven seasons, Josh Giddey and the Oklahoma City Thunder have probably the best future of any NBA organization.

Last year, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander went from a rising talent to a legitimate MVP contender and first-team All-NBA selection. With averages of 31.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 5.5 assists, 1.6 steals, and 1.0 block per game on 51 percent shooting from the field, Gilgeous-Alexander nearly single-handedly guided the Thunder to the playoffs. The Thunder are banking on Josh Giddey, his backcourt partner, to make a similar leap in his third season.

Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints recently met up with Josh Giddey in Las Vegas for Summer League to chat about the Thunder, Victor Wembanyama, and Giddey’s amazing hair.

Azarly, Tomer Josh, I remember last time we were here I inquired what you and Chet Holmgren should go by as nicknames. What was that again, exactly?

Yes, “Chetmate” was the term that Josh Giddey used.

Wow, you actually remember that! When can we expect to see that? How excited are you about it?

Uh huh. Yes, of course. As soon as the regular season resumes, we will begin playing again. Really, I just can’t wait.

The Thunder roster features numerous first-round picks, a number of second-round picks, and a number of players of the highest caliber. How do you see the team developing as a whole?

This group has a lot of talent spread throughout. There are a lot of men we can rely on, you know. There are, of course, some new draftees this year. Thus, I am eager. Since everybody there is healthy, things should go well. Expect pleasant results.

How can you take your game to the next level?

The three-pointer. During the offseason, players spend a lot of time shooting. It’s something I’m trying to improve. No, I haven’t hιt my twenties yet. Allow me a lot of room to develop and expand. There are still many facets of my performance I could improve upon, so here’s hoping I can keep developing and eventually excel in most areas.

What did you think of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a teammate of the Thunder’s, making the massive leap to first team all NBA?

Huge. Undeniably deserved it. It really was a significant part of what we did. Oh, I’m overjoyed for him. He certainly deserved to be mentioned for MVP consideration. He leaped quite high. It would be great if all the players in the upcoming year could make the same leap.

In a battlҽ between you and NBA all-star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who do you think would come out on top?

I won’t sugarcoat it; he’s really difficult to keep under control. Now he has won the argument.

You made the long trip to the United States specifically to play basketball. Unlike Victor Wembanyama, you weren’t the center of attention. What are your thoughts on his first appearance? Is it exhausting to be the center of so much interest?

A lot was expected of the youngster, but it appears he up to the challenge. He keeps his head on straight. It was impossible to determine from his expression whether or not the evening had been enjoyable. It seems like he’s at ease in the open air. It’s clear he has a skill that no one else does. But once he finds his footing, he’ll be a formidable opponent.

When do you get your gel?

I had it shipped here from Australia, and it’s a big deal.

Each and every time?

You see, I order them in bulk, so I always have a good supply on hand; when I finally run out, which isn’t too often, a fresh shipment arrives. Have you ever forgotten to get more or simply ran out? Cancel the idea. Never. When I get down to three or four, I bring in another 10 to ensure that I always have enough on hand.

What would you like to say to Thunder supporters?

Everyone here adores you. We hope to catch up with you at Paycom this year.