NBA MVP 2025: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s Historic Win and What It Means for the League

The NBA MVP 2025 race brought basketball fans one of the most thrilling finishes in recent memory. With the league’s brightest stars vying for basketball’s highest individual honor, all eyes were on whether Denver Nuggets center Nikola Jokić would make further history or if a new face would emerge victorious. In a season defined by record-breaking performances and epic showdowns, Oklahoma City Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander claimed his place among the game’s elite.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: A Breakout Season

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s electrifying campaign catapulted him to the top of the NBA MVP 2025 conversation. He didn’t just lead the Thunder; he led the entire league, averaging an impressive 32.7 points on a 68-win squad that shattered the all-time record for point differential. His performances in crucial matchups, including the playoff series against the Nuggets, cemented his status as an elite scorer and leader.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP victory not only earned him the league’s top honor but also made him eligible for the largest contract in NBA history—a staggering five-year, $380 million deal. For more on his historic contract and career trajectory, visit the Yahoo Sports in-depth report.

Nikola Jokić: Another Historic Season, But Runner-Up Again

Nikola Jokić’s quest for a fourth MVP fell just short, despite posting his best statistical season yet. Averaging 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game, Jokić became the first player in NBA history to rank top-three in all three major categories over a season. His consistency and versatility drew comparisons with legends like Bill Russell and Larry Bird. Jokić now joins them as one of only three players in league history with five consecutive top-2 MVP finishes.

For a look at how Jokić’s season secures his legacy among the NBA greats, read the comprehensive analysis from NBA.com.

The Voting Breakdown and Tight Rivalry

This MVP race was one of the closest in recent memory. Gilgeous-Alexander pulled away with 71 of the 100 first-place votes, while Jokić garnered the remaining 29. Both players appeared on every ballot, emphasizing just how dominant their seasons were. The final showdown between the Thunder and Nuggets in the playoffs only intensified the rivalry, with Gilgeous-Alexander’s 35-point performance in Game 7 securing both the series and his MVP status.

To dive deeper into the final voting and the storylines that defined the season, check out the full Denver Post coverage.

What NBA MVP 2025 Means for the League

Gilgeous-Alexander’s triumph signals a shift in the NBA landscape. His rise marks a new era for the Oklahoma City Thunder and adds a fresh face to the league’s superstar ranks. For fans, the 2025 MVP race was a showcase of basketball excellence—one that promises an exciting future filled with new records and fierce competition.

As the dust settles on this unforgettable season, the NBA MVP 2025 award will be remembered not just for the numbers, but for the compelling stories of perseverance, rivalry, and legacy.