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4mo ago

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Named NBA MVP, First Canadian-Born Player to Win

Gilgeous-Alexander’s record-setting season with the Thunder earns him MVP honors, as Steve Nash and Rowan Barrett highlight its impact on Canadian basketball.

Steve Nash had Dirk Nowitzki as his MVP foil, and friend. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has Nikola Jokić as his nemesis.

Overview

  • Shai Gilgeous-Alexander averaged 32.7 points, 6.4 assists, and five rebounds, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 68-14 record, the best in the NBA this season.
  • He becomes the first Canadian-born player and the second Canadian overall, after Steve Nash, to win the NBA MVP award.
  • Steve Nash praised Gilgeous-Alexander’s achievement as 'amazing,' noting his influence on the global growth of basketball and the legacy of Canadian talent.
  • Rowan Barrett, Canada’s national team GM, emphasized the award’s inspirational impact on young Canadian athletes aspiring to play at the highest levels.
  • Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP win highlights the ongoing globalization of the NBA, as he edged out international stars Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo for the honor.