The NBA MVP award stands as the league's highest individual honor, spotlighting only the best of the best in basketball. The 2025 season's race for this prestigious trophy has fans and analysts buzzing, mostly because of its tight finish, incredible player performances, and an unusual delay in announcing the winner.

Who Are the 2025 NBA MVP Finalists?

Year after year, the NBA MVP debate draws fierce arguments and passionate discussions. This season, three names top the list: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder), Nikola Jokic (Denver Nuggets), and Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks).

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder to a league-best 68 wins. He topped the scoring charts with 32.7 points per game, alongside 5 rebounds and 6.4 assists.
• Nikola Jokic put up spectacular numbers, averaging a triple-double with 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game. His impact has been historic, with the chance to win his fourth MVP in five years.
• Giannis Antetokounmpo also had a remarkable season, averaging 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists while keeping the Bucks among the league's elite.

These finalists rose above a talented field, including notable stars like Jayson Tatum and Jalen Brunson, but the race was ultimately a two-man sprint between Gilgeous-Alexander and Jokic.

Tightest NBA MVP Race in Years

This season’s MVP voting has been as close as any in recent memory. According to ESPN’s final straw poll, Gilgeous-Alexander edged out Jokic by a slim margin, securing 77 of 100 first-place votes. Both players' efforts launched their teams into top playoff contention. Jokic made history with his stats while Gilgeous-Alexander’s scoring propelled the Thunder to their dominant regular-season record.

Why the NBA MVP Award Delay?

One story overshadowing the MVP race is the league’s surprising decision to delay the official announcement and presentation of the award. Fans anticipated that the trophy would be handed to the likely winner, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, during a crucial playoff game against the Nuggets. However, the ceremony has been pushed back, leaving both fans and players puzzled. This unusual move bucks tradition, especially when compared to the timely presentations for Jokic and Joel Embiid in recent years.

The delay has fueled speculation about the NBA’s motives. Some suggest it’s a strategic move to heighten the playoff drama, potentially holding the presentation for a decisive moment if the Thunder advance further. Others believe it might simply be due to scheduling conflicts. Whatever the reason, this year’s NBA MVP award presentation has become almost as intense a topic as the race itself.

What’s Next for the NBA MVP?

As fans await the official announcement, the 2025 NBA MVP debate rages on. Will Gilgeous-Alexander get his long-awaited moment of recognition in front of Oklahoma City supporters? Or will the league’s unusual delay cast a shadow over his achievement? One thing is certain: the NBA MVP award continues to capture the intrigue and admiration of basketball enthusiasts everywhere.

To stay up to date on the latest MVP news and official ballots, check out ESPN’s full coverage and For The Win’s reporting on this season's unprecedented delay.

Conclusion

The 2025 NBA MVP race is proof that elite basketball is as much about performance as it is about timing and narrative. Whether the winner is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, or Giannis Antetokounmpo, fans should celebrate one of the most competitive seasons in recent history. Stay tuned for the official announcement—this year’s MVP moment is sure to be unforgettable.