Oklahoma City Thunder fans were given another reason to celebrate their team’s incredible season.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was officially named NBA MVP, capping what can only be described as a historic campaign.
According to the NBA, he joined Wilt Chamberlain, Michael Jordan and Kevin Durant as a rare MVP recipient.
“Shai Gilgeous-Alexander becomes the 4th player in NBA history to average 32+ PPG, 5+ RPG, 5+ APG and win MVP in the same season! Legendary company for OKC’s superstar!” the league wrote on X.
Wilt. Michael. KD. SGA.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander becomes the 4th player in NBA history to average 32+ PPG, 5+ RPG, 5+ APG and win #KiaMVP in the same season!
Legendary company for OKC’s superstar! pic.twitter.com/D24R3BLvaL
— NBA (@NBA) May 22, 2025
For a small-market team like Oklahoma City, having a player reach such heights again, as Durant also did in 2014, represents a monumental achievement.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP recognition reflects a phenomenal season that saw him top Nikola Jokic for the honor.
However, individual accolades take a backseat to the larger goal at hand.
The Thunder are chasing their first NBA Finals appearance since 2012 and the franchise’s first championship since relocating to Oklahoma City.
Game 1 provided a glimpse of that championship potential.
After a sluggish start, the Thunder exploded for 70 second-half points while limiting the Minnesota Timberwolves to 40, a dramatic turnaround that gave them early series momentum.
Now, with Game 2 on their home court, Oklahoma City can seize control before the series shifts to Minnesota for Game 3.
Gilgeous-Alexander has already placed himself among basketball’s elite. His next challenge involves taking that legacy even further.
NEXT: Oklahoma City Mayor Declares Thursday As 'Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Day'