Oklahoma City Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has officially been crowned the 2024-25 NBA MVP, marking the first time in his career that he has won the prestigious award.
After finishing as the runner-up last season, Gilgeous-Alexander took his game to new heights, leading the Thunder to the best record in the NBA (68-14) and securing the league’s scoring title with a career-best 32.7 points per game.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s dominance extended beyond scoring. The 26-year-old guard also averaged 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game, while shooting an efficient 51.9% from the field and 37.5% from three-point range. His all-around impact helped Oklahoma City establish itself as a legitimate championship contender.
The MVP race was highly competitive, with Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo rounding out the top three finalists. Jokić, a three-time MVP, put up 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, while Antetokounmpo averaged 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists. Despite their impressive numbers, Gilgeous-Alexander’s combination of elite production and team success ultimately secured him the award.
Oklahoma City’s 68 wins tied for the fifth-most in a single season in NBA history, and Gilgeous-Alexander was the driving force behind their success. His ability to take over games, combined with his leadership, made him the clear choice for MVP among voters.
This marks the third time in Thunder franchise history that a player has won the MVP award, joining Kevin Durant (2014) and Russell Westbrook (2017). Gilgeous-Alexander’s victory further solidifies his status as one of the league’s premier talents.
With the Thunder currently battling the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Finals, Gilgeous-Alexander will look to add an NBA championship to his resume. If he can continue his stellar play, Oklahoma City could be on the verge of something special.
