NBA MVP Finalists Announced: Wembanyama, Gilgeous-Alexander, and Jokic in the Running

The NBA has revealed its finalists for the Most Valuable Player award, with Victor Wembanyama, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Nikola Jokic making the shortlist. This marks the eighth consecutive year that the MVP award will be given to an international player. Gilgeous-Alexander, the current MVP, is seeking to secure back-to-back wins, while Jokic is aiming for 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. Wembanyama made a notable debut in the playoffs this season, scoring a franchise-record 35 points in his first playoff game as the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 111-98. The 2026 NBA playoffs continue to air live on Sky Sports, with upcoming games including the Toronto Raptors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers on Sky Sports+.