Shai Gilgeous-Alexander wins NBA MVP award after historic season
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander achieved a historic 68-14 record leading the Thunder and averaged 32.7 points per game.
- He becomes the Thunder's first MVP and the second Canadian to win the award following Steve Nash.
- The victory ignites discussions on MVP voting criteria and highlights ongoing debates within the league.
On May 21, 2025, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a Canadian star playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder, was awarded the NBA Most Valuable Player Award following a remarkable season. He led the Thunder to an impressive 68-14 record, the best in the league, and emerged as the league's scoring champion, averaging 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.0 rebounds per game. This accolade makes him the first player from the Thunder to win the MVP award and the second Canadian to receive the honor, following Steve Nash. Gilgeous-Alexander's achievement is particularly noteworthy as it signifies a turning point for the Thunder, who have struggled since their last deep playoff run in 2016. His contributions on both offense and defense were essential for the team's success and played a pivotal role in their postseason journey, which has reached the Western Conference finals. Despite his accolades, some fans and analysts have expressed discontent regarding the MVP voting, suggesting that fellow finalist Nikola Jokic could have been a deserving candidate due to his triple-double performance during the season. This perspective highlights the ongoing debate in the NBA around player evaluations and the criteria used in MVP selections, particularly regarding Gilgeous-Alexander's free throw tendencies and gameplay style. Overall, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP recognition reflects his dominance on the court and propels the Thunder into a promising position for the future, not only showcasing his individual prowess but also representing a significant moment in the franchise's history.