Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Wins NBA MVP Award, Celebrates by Giving Back to Teammates
In a spectacular display of gratitude and team spirit, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder was named the NBA’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2025 season. Following this milestone achievement, he surprised his teammates by gifting each player an extravagant basket valued at over $10,000, filled with high-end items such as Rolex watches, iPhones, Beats by Dre headphones, and Canada Goose jackets. This act not only reflects his overwhelming success on the court but also his commitment to team unity.
A Historic Achievement
Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP win marks a significant moment for the franchise, as he becomes the first Thunder player since Russell Westbrook in 2016 to earn this prestigious accolade. With an impressive season behind him, Gilgeous-Alexander led the league in scoring, averaging 32.7 points per game, a feat achieved by very few guards in the history of the NBA. This scoring average places him among legends such as Kobe Bryant and Allen Iverson.
In the MVP voting, Gilgeous-Alexander received 71 out of 100 first-place votes, outperforming finalists Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo, who finished second and third, respectively. Notably, he is also the seventh consecutive MVP winner from outside the United States, joining an elite list that includes Jokić and Antetokounmpo.
Team Success as a Foundation for Individual Brilliance
Gilgeous-Alexander’s success has been instrumental in the Thunder’s outstanding performance this season, finishing with a remarkable 68-14 record—the sixth-best in NBA history. His individual accolades have come intertwined with team accomplishments, making it evident that his leadership and skills directly contributed to the franchise’s achievements.
His impressive form was on full display during the Western Conference Finals, where he scored 31 points in the opening game against strong competition. Former Denver Nuggets coach Michael Malone praised his performance, citing it as a demonstration of his worthiness for the MVP title, despite previously working with MVP winner Jokić.
Recognition of Hard Work and Consistent Performance
This season was particularly special for Gilgeous-Alexander as it marked his third consecutive year of averaging over 30 points per game. He finished fifth in MVP voting in 2023 and was the runner-up in 2024, highlighting his steadily rising trajectory. His scoring prowess this season was not only remarkable numerically but also historically significant—his average score is the second highest recorded on a team with at least 60 wins.
The Gift Baskets: A Celebration of Team Bonding
The lavish gift baskets, presented during the team’s celebration, included custom embroidered jackets recognizing their successful season. This gesture underscores the importance Gilgeous-Alexander places on his teammates and their collective effort. It reflects a culture of camaraderie that the Thunder organization aims to maintain, particularly as they navigate the pressures and challenges of postseason play.
Conclusion and Potential Impact
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s ascension to MVP status not only elevates his personal legacy but also serves as a pivotal moment for the Oklahoma City Thunder franchise. His decision to share his success with teammates illustrates a profound understanding of the unity that sports demand. As the Thunder look to build on this success, Gilgeous-Alexander remains a beacon of both talent and generosity, showcasing the values that can drive teams to victory.
With the playoffs in full swing, the Thunder’s journey is being closely watched, as they aim to convert this historic regular season into championship glory. In a league where individual achievements often overshadow team dynamics, Gilgeous-Alexander’s actions remind fans and players alike of the intrinsic value of teamwork both on and off the court.
