In a thrilling moment just before Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Minnesota Timberwolves, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named the NBA's Most Valuable Player for the 2024-25 season. The award, presented by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, was handed to the Thunder star in front of a roaring home crowd
Interestingly, SGA’s win continues an unexpected NBA trend. The 2024-25 season becomes the ninth consecutive year that the league's MVP has no tattoos. This streak includes previous MVPs such as Nikola Jokic, Joel Embiid, Giannis Antetokounmpo, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook. Notably, although Westbrook now has tattoos, he got them in 2020, well after he claimed the MVP award in the 2016-17 season.
The last tattooed player to win the MVP title was Stephen Curry back in the 2015-16 season, making this a quirky but consistent statistic across recent years.
Standout season for Gilgeous-Alexander
Gilgeous-Alexander had a spectacular season, leading the Thunder with consistent and elite performances on both ends of the court. His efforts earned him a commanding 71 first-place votes, placing him well ahead of other top contenders such as three-time MVP Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, Donovan Mitchell, LeBron James, and Cade Cunningham.
With the award, Gilgeous-Alexander receives the Michael Jordan Trophy, which honors the NBA’s top individual player each season.
Oklahoma City Mayor Declared May 21 as 'Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Day'
In recognition of his achievement, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt made a special announcement, officially designating May 21 as "Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Day." The honor adds to the wave of celebrations around the city as fans and teammates applaud SGA’s historic win.
As the Thunder continue their playoff journey, their newly crowned MVP is firmly at the heart of their championship aspirations.
