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. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the current MVP, is aiming to claim the title for the second year in a row, while Jokic is seeking his fourth MVP win. Wembanyama, who is also a contender for the Defensive Player of the Year award, is hoping to secure 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 last year.
Meanwhile, young sensation Wembanyama has made a remarkable debut in the playoffs, scoring a franchise-record 35 points for the San Antonio Spurs in their 111-98 win over the Portland Trail Blazers. The 2026 NBA playoffs will continue to be broadcast live on Sky Sports, with upcoming games including the Toronto Raptors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers on Sky Sports+.