Breaking News: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of OKC Crowned NBA MVP – What It Means for His Career and the Franchise

OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has made headlines by winning his first NBA MVP award after an incredible season. He led the Oklahoma City Thunder to an impressive 68 wins, the highest in the league. This was all confirmed by ESPN’s Shams Charania.

The official announcement came days after the Thunder triumphed over the Denver Nuggets in a thrilling Game 7 of the Western Conference semifinals. Last year, Gilgeous-Alexander was the MVP runner-up while Nikola Jokic, who had another standout season this year, took home the honor.

Jokic’s stats were remarkable: 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. However, Gilgeous-Alexander’s season was historic. He led the league in scoring with 32.7 points per game on 51.9% shooting. Alongside that, he averaged 6.4 assists, 5.0 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 1.0 blocks. This achievement puts him in a unique category—only Michael Jordan matched these numbers in the past.

At just 26 years old, Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring title is only the tenth instance in NBA history where a player leads the league while playing for a team that won 60 or more games. Interestingly, the only recipient not to win the MVP in this scenario was Karl Malone in 1996-97.

Gilgeous-Alexander has now averaged at least 30 points per game for three consecutive seasons, all while shooting over 50%. This feat ties him with legends like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Giannis Antetokounmpo.

He played a key role in leading the Thunder’s top-ranked defense, achieving 208 combined steals and blocks this season. His performance has put him in elite company within the franchise, joining Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook as the only MVP winners in team history.

In addition to his MVP win, Gilgeous-Alexander is eligible for a massive four-year, $294 million supermax extension this summer. If finalized, it would make it the highest annual contract in NBA history.

This season’s achievements mark a significant moment in the NBA, especially as the league continues to see emerging talent. Fans and analysts are buzzing about the future of the Thunder and Gilgeous-Alexander’s potential impact in the coming years.

For more details on player stats and team standings, you can check out ESPN.

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