In a season where dominance met consistency, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has officially been crowned the 2024–25 NBA Most Valuable Player, making him the third player in Oklahoma City Thunder history to win the prestigious award, following in the footsteps of Kevin Durant (2014) and Russell Westbrook (2017).
At just 26 years old, Gilgeous-Alexander delivered a campaign that not only captivated fans but solidified his standing as one of the NBA’s elite. Averaging 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game, the Canadian guard led the Thunder to a league-best 68–14 record—their best since the Durant-Westbrook-Harden era.
A Record-Setting MVP Season
What truly set Gilgeous-Alexander apart was his two-way excellence. He wasn’t just the league’s leading scorer—his defensive metrics placed him among the top-3 in combined steals and blocks. He shot an elite 51.9% from the field and 89.8% from the free-throw line, displaying unparalleled efficiency for a high-volume scorer.
The Thunder posted a +12.9 average point differential, the highest in NBA history, showcasing not just individual brilliance but also team synergy led by their star point guard.
Canadian History in the Making
Gilgeous-Alexander also etched his name in Canadian basketball history, becoming the first Canadian since Steve Nash (2006) to win the NBA MVP. In doing so, he also became the first University of Kentucky alumnus to secure the honor—adding even more prestige to a career that is only just beginning.
His journey from being drafted 11th overall by the Charlotte Hornets in 2018, traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, and then sent to Oklahoma City in the now-infamous Paul George trade, has come full circle. That trade, once seen as the Clippers’ championship pathway, is now being re-evaluated as one of the most lopsided deals in recent NBA history.
Leading the Thunder to New Heights
Under Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership, Oklahoma City has not only re-entered championship contention but also established itself as the NBA’s top team in the regular season. With a young, dynamic roster and the league’s best player at the helm, the Thunder are currently in the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, signaling a deep postseason run may soon bear fruit.
The MVP honor isn’t just a personal achievement—it’s a signal that the Thunder’s rebuilding phase is complete, and a new dynasty may be brewing in Oklahoma.
Supermax Extension on the Horizon
Thanks to his MVP selection, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is now eligible for a four-year, $294 million supermax extension—which would make him the highest-paid player on an annual basis in NBA history. That potential deal would cement his long-term future in Oklahoma City and ensure the Thunder remain competitive for years to come.
Legacy Just Beginning
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP win is more than a statistical achievement—it’s a cultural moment for Oklahoma City, Canada, and the next generation of NBA stars. With poise, precision, and passion, SGA has proven he belongs among the league’s greats. And if this season is any indication, the best is yet to come.
