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

The NBA has announced its finalists for the most valuable player award, 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 MVP, is seeking to claim the title back-to-back, while Jokic is aiming for his fourth MVP win. Wembanyama, also a contender for the defensive player of the year award, is hoping to secure 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 remarkable playoff debut, scoring 35 points and setting a franchise record for the San Antonio Spurs. The 2026 NBA playoffs will continue to be broadcast live on Sky Sports, with upcoming games including the Toronto Raptors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers.