Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Wins 2024-25 NBA MVP for Oklahoma City Thunder

OKLAHOMA CITY, May 22, 2025 — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named the 2024-25 NBA Most Valuable Player, becoming the third player in Oklahoma City Thunder history to win the award. Gilgeous-Alexander achieved this honor after averaging 32.7 points, 6.4 assists and 5.0 rebounds per game, leading the Thunder to a remarkable 68-14 record this season.

In a ceremony held at the team’s practice facility, Gilgeous-Alexander expressed his gratitude. “Winning is everything, and if you don’t win, nothing matters,” he said, highlighting the importance of team success in achieving individual accolades. His performance not only earned him the MVP title but also the league scoring championship.

Gilgeous-Alexander’s impressive stats included a career-high in points per game and ranking among the best in steals, blocks, and three-point shooting. He also became the first guard to win the MVP award since James Harden in 2018. During his MVP campaign, he set records for the most games scoring at least 20, 30, and 40 points in a season, showcasing his scoring prowess and versatility.

Reflecting on his journey, Gilgeous-Alexander mentioned, “There were nights I doubted myself, but I focused on working hard and controlling what I can control.” This resilient mindset paid off, as he worked his way up from being overlooked in prior seasons to claiming the MVP title.

Gilgeous-Alexander acknowledged the influence of past Canadian MVP Steve Nash, stating, “Seeing guys go to the NBA from Canada wouldn’t have seemed as much of a dream without him.” The Thunder star is now not only a Canadian icon but also a pivotal figure in his franchise’s history, with hopes of leading them to their first championship.

Despite the individual recognition, Gilgeous-Alexander emphasized that his focus remains on winning. As the Thunder advance to the playoffs, he expressed a strong desire to bring home a title, aiming to achieve what previous Thunder MVPs, Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, could not.