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 MVP will be awarded to an international player. Gilgeous-Alexander, the current reigning MVP, is looking to secure back-to-back wins, while Jokic aims to claim his fourth MVP title.
Wembanyama, also a contender for the defensive player of the year award, is seeking his first MVP win. 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, young talent Wembanyama made his playoff debut this season, achieving a franchise record for the San Antonio Spurs with 35 points in a 111-98 win against the Portland Trail Blazers.
The 2026 NBA playoffs continue to air on Sky Sports, with upcoming games including the Toronto Raptors vs. the Cleveland Cavaliers.