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 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 honor. 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 sensation Wembanyama made his playoff debut this season, achieving a franchise record for the San Antonio Spurs with 35 points in a game 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.