In a landmark moment for Canadian basketball, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named the 2024–2025 NBA Most Valuable Player, becoming the first Canadian-born player to earn the league's highest individual honor. This recognition caps a historic season for the Oklahoma City Thunder star, who led both statistically and emotionally as the face of one of the NBA's most exciting young teams.(Facebook)
A Season for the Ages
Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP campaign was defined by consistency, explosiveness, and leadership. He led the league in scoring with 32.7 points per game, while also averaging 6.4 assists and 5 rebounds per contest. His shooting efficiency—51.9% from the field—was remarkable for a high-usage guard, and he frequently delivered in clutch moments. He also set a new NBA record with 72 consecutive games scoring at least 20 points, surpassing Michael Jordan’s previous mark. (Facebook, Wikipedia)
The Thunder, under Gilgeous-Alexander's leadership, finished with a league-best 68–14 record, the highest in franchise history. This achievement earned them the Maurice Podoloff Trophy and home-court advantage throughout the playoffs. (Reuters, Wikipedia)
MVP Moments: From Regular Season to Playoffs
While the MVP award is based on regular-season performance, Gilgeous-Alexander's playoff heroics further solidified his stature. In Game 7 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Denver Nuggets, he scored 35 points with zero turnovers, leading the Thunder to a dominant 125–93 victory and their first conference finals appearance since 2016. (The Washington Post)
His performance drew praise from teammates and opponents alike. Thunder center Chet Holmgren declared the MVP debate over, stating, "This guy has been the best player all year." (talkSPORT, The Times of India)
A Canadian Trailblazer
Born in Toronto, Gilgeous-Alexander's rise to MVP is a milestone for Canadian basketball. He joins Steve Nash as the only Canadians to win the award, with Nash having won it in 2005 and 2006. Gilgeous-Alexander's achievement is expected to inspire a new generation of Canadian athletes.
What's Next?
With the MVP trophy in hand, Gilgeous-Alexander and the Thunder now set their sights on the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves. As the postseason continues, all eyes will be on the newly crowned MVP to see if he can lead Oklahoma City to its first NBA championship.(The Times of India)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 2024–2025 season will be remembered as one of the most dominant in recent history—a testament to his skill, determination, and leadership.