Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Oklahoma City Thunder star, has once again proven his prowess on the court, claiming the Kia MVP award for the second consecutive season. This achievement is a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional skills, as he continues to dominate the NBA.
The 2025-26 season marked a remarkable start for Gilgeous-Alexander, with the Thunder showcasing their strength early on. In the first 13 games, he demonstrated his scoring prowess, netting at least 30 points in 11 of those matches. The team's impressive 22-1 start further solidified Gilgeous-Alexander's impact, as he averaged an impressive 32.8 points, 6.4 assists, 1.4 steals, and a mere 1.7 turnovers, while shooting an exceptional 55.6% from the field and 44.3% on 3-pointers.
What's truly remarkable is his commitment to excellence. Gilgeous-Alexander's mindset is not solely about the accolades and personal glory. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of giving his all to the game, ensuring that his efforts are not just for himself but for the entire team and the sacrifices made by those around him. This mindset has led to a string of impressive achievements.
In the 2025-26 season, Gilgeous-Alexander's per-36-minute scoring average dipped slightly, but his efficiency improved. He increased his shooting percentage from .519 to .553 and his 3-point percentage from .375 to .386. His assists per-36 minutes also saw a positive increase from 6.7 to 7.1. This season, he posted career-highs in shooting percentage and assists, averaging 6.6 per game, and generated the third-best scoring output at 31.1 points per game.
Gilgeous-Alexander's impact extends beyond statistics. He became the first guard to average 30 or more points and shoot 55% or better from the field, joining an elite group of players in NBA history, including Michael Jordan and Wilt Chamberlain. His streak of scoring 20 or more points in every game extended to an NBA-record 140 games, showcasing his consistency and reliability.
Furthermore, his ability to manage turnovers is commendable. With 2.2 turnovers per game, he led the league in plus-minus at plus-788, demonstrating his control and leadership on the court. Gilgeous-Alexander's clutch performances were recognized with the Clutch Player of the Year award, further solidifying his status as a top player in the league.
The Thunder's success this season is a testament to the team's collective effort. Despite the challenges of facing a more familiar and improved league, they maintained their position as the No. 1 seed, showcasing their resilience and determination. Gilgeous-Alexander's leadership and performance have undoubtedly played a pivotal role in the team's achievements.
In conclusion, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's back-to-back Kia MVP awards are a testament to his talent, hard work, and leadership. His impact on the court extends beyond statistics, inspiring his teammates and fans alike. As he continues to dominate the NBA, his legacy as one of the league's brightest stars is firmly established.
