Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander experienced an unusual moment with a member of the media following a recent game.
After the player provided a detailed answer regarding his performance, the reporter admitted that he had relied on an “AI-based search engine” to gather his game statistics, according to Yahoo Sports.
The reporter acknowledged that the information provided to the athlete was inaccurate.
He then offered a lighthearted comment to the player, noting, “Gotcha, don’t trust AI.”
This exchange was documented by Hoops Hype as part of a viral moment involving the star player.
Gilgeous-Alexander had just finished discussing his 40-point effort in a game that resulted in a loss for his team.
The player appeared to take the error in stride as he prepared to leave the podium area.
Responding to the reporter’s warning about technology, the athlete offered his own advice to those listening.
He told the room, “Yeah, don’t do it. Definitely don’t do it!” per OKC Thunder Wire.
The interaction highlights growing concerns regarding the reliability of automated tools in professional sports journalism.
While artificial intelligence is increasingly used to assist with data aggregation, this incident serves as a reminder of the potential for factual errors.
The reporter abandoned any attempt at plausible deniability once the mistake was identified in the press room.
Both the athlete and the reporter treated the situation with humor despite the initial confusion caused by the incorrect data.
The video clip of the interaction quickly circulated online following the post-game conference.
Media outlets have continued to report on the incident as an example of the risks associated with AI-driven research.
Gilgeous-Alexander remains focused on his upcoming schedule after the brief distraction.
The Thunder organization has not issued a formal statement regarding the media interaction.