2025 NBA MVP Race: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's Historic Victory and the Road Ahead

In a season defined by fierce competition and standout performances, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) emerged as the 2024-25 NBA Most Valuable Player, narrowly edging out Nikola Jokić in one of the closest races in recent history.

SGA's Stellar Season

SGA's campaign was nothing short of spectacular. The Oklahoma City Thunder guard played 76 games, averaging 32.7 points, 5 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game. His scoring prowess and leadership were instrumental in the Thunder's success, culminating in a playoff berth and a significant leap in team performance. SGA's ability to elevate his game in clutch moments and his consistency throughout the season were key factors in his MVP selection.

Close Contenders: Jokić and Antetokounmpo

Nikola Jokić, the Denver Nuggets' center, continued to showcase his exceptional skills, averaging 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game over 70 games. His unique blend of scoring, playmaking, and rebounding kept him in the MVP conversation until the final votes were tallied.

Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks also had a remarkable season, posting averages of 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game in 67 games. Despite his impressive stats, Giannis finished third in the MVP voting, reflecting the intense competition at the top.

Final MVP Voting Results

Note: The MVP voting system awards 10 points for a 1st place vote, 7 points for 2nd place, and so on.

Looking Ahead: 2025-26 MVP Race

As the 2025-26 season approaches, the MVP race is already heating up. Early odds favor Nikola Jokić (+220), Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (+250), and Luka Dončić (+380) as the top contenders. Jokić's consistent excellence and versatility keep him at the forefront, while SGA's previous MVP season and Dončić's dynamic playstyle make them formidable challengers. (SI)

SGA's Continued Impact

SGA's journey doesn't stop at winning the MVP. His performance has set new standards for excellence in the league, and his leadership continues to inspire both his team and fans worldwide. As the Thunder aim for deeper playoff runs, SGA's role as a cornerstone player will be pivotal in shaping the team's future success.