Wembanyama, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Jokic Shortlisted for NBA MVP

The finalists for the NBA's most valuable player award have been announced, with Victor Wembanyama, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Nikola Jokic making the cut. This marks the eighth consecutive year that the award will go to an international player. Gilgeous-Alexander, the current MVP, is aiming to secure back-to-back wins, while Jokic is seeking his fourth MVP title. Wembanyama, also a contender for the defensive player of the year award, is hoping to claim his first MVP. The streak of international MVPs began in 2019 and 2020 with Giannis Antetokounmpo, followed by Jokic's wins in 2021, 2022, and 2024. Joel Embiid took the award in 2023, and Gilgeous-Alexander won last year. Notably, Wembanyama made a impressive playoff debut, scoring 35 points and setting a franchise record for the San Antonio Spurs. The NBA playoffs continue, with the Toronto Raptors facing the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sky Sports+ on Monday evening.