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

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 award will go to an international player. Gilgeous-Alexander, the current MVP, is looking to claim the title for the second year in a row, while Jokic is aiming for his fourth MVP win. Wembanyama, who is also a contender for the defensive player of the year award, is seeking his first MVP title. 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 it last year. Notably, Wembanyama made a remarkable debut in the playoffs this season, scoring 35 points and setting a franchise record for the San Antonio Spurs. The 2026 NBA playoffs are currently underway, with live coverage available on Sky Sports.