In a season that will echo through NBA history, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander became the first player in 12 years to win both the NBA MVP and Finals MVP awards. The Oklahoma City Thunder’s superstar guard led his team to a thrilling championship victory, capping a remarkable 2024-25 campaign. At just 26, the Canadian phenom has etched his name alongside basketball’s elite, delivering jaw-dropping performances that culminated in a Game 7 masterpiece against the Indiana Pacers. This blog dives into the significance of Gilgeous-Alexander’s dual MVP triumph, his dominant Thunder run, and what it means for his legacy.
The Rise to NBA MVP Greatness
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s journey to the NBA MVP award was nothing short of spectacular. Averaging a league-leading 32.7 points per game, he propelled the Thunder to a franchise-record 68 wins. His efficiency—51.9% field goal shooting and a career-high 37.5% from three—paired with 6.4 assists and 1.7 steals, showcased his all-around brilliance. Gilgeous-Alexander edged out Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo, securing 71 of 100 first-place votes. His ability to dominate on both ends of the court, leading the NBA’s top defense and fourth-best offense, made him the undeniable choice for the Michael Jordan Trophy.
The Thunder’s historic point differential of plus-12.9 per game underscored Gilgeous-Alexander’s impact. His leadership transformed OKC into a juggernaut, finishing 16 games ahead of the second-place Houston Rockets. Despite facing voter fatigue for Jokić, Gilgeous-Alexander’s consistency and team success flipped the narrative from his runner-up finish the previous year. This MVP win marked him as the third Thunder player to claim the honor, following Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook.
Finals MVP: Sealing the Thunder’s Championship
Gilgeous-Alexander’s Finals MVP performance cemented his legacy. In a grueling seven-game series against the Pacers, he averaged 30.3 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.6 rebounds. His Game 7 brilliance—29 points and 12 assists in a 103-91 victory—clinched OKC’s first title since relocating in 2008. Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to navigate Indiana’s defensive schemes, including full-court presses and tight coverage from Tyrese Haliburton, showcased his poise under pressure. He also set an NBA record with 12 playoff games of at least 30 points and 5 assists, surpassing Michael Jordan and LeBron James.
The Thunder’s championship run was a testament to Gilgeous-Alexander’s growth. Acquired in a 2019 trade for Paul George, he evolved from a promising rookie into the face of the franchise. His mid-range mastery, honed under Chris Paul’s mentorship, and improved three-point shooting made him unguardable. OKC’s additions of veterans like Isaiah Hartenstein and Alex Caruso bolstered the roster, but Gilgeous-Alexander remained the driving force, earning Western Conference Finals MVP en route to the title.
Key Points Summary:
- Shai Gilgeous-Alexander won NBA MVP with 32.7 PPG, leading OKC to 68 wins.
- He claimed Finals MVP, averaging 30.3 PPG in a seven-game triumph over Indiana.
- First player since LeBron James (2013) to win both MVP awards in one season.
- Set playoff record with 12 games of 30+ points and 5+ assists.
Joining an Elite Club
By winning both the NBA MVP and Finals MVP, Gilgeous-Alexander entered rare company. He’s the 11th player in NBA history to achieve this double, joining legends like Jordan, LeBron, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. He’s also the fourth to win MVP, Finals MVP, and a scoring title in the same season, a feat last accomplished by Shaquille O’Neal. As the first Canadian to achieve this, Gilgeous-Alexander has become a national icon, following in Steve Nash’s footsteps. His jersey sales skyrocketed, reflecting his growing global influence.
The Thunder’s youth—second-youngest team to win a title—adds to the significance. Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership at 26 suggests OKC could dominate for years. With future draft picks and a talented core, the franchise is poised for a dynasty. His ability to stay composed amid rival fans’ taunts and defensive pressure highlights a mental toughness that sets him apart.
What’s Next for SGA?
Gilgeous-Alexander’s historic season raises the bar for his future. Eligible for a four-year, $294 million supermax extension, he’s set to become one of the NBA’s highest-paid stars. His focus remains on team success, dismissing individual accolades with a mantra of “winning one more game.” Fans and analysts see him chasing more titles, potentially joining the multi-Finals MVP club. His admiration for Kobe Bryant fuels his drive to emulate the late legend’s competitive spirit.
The NBA landscape has shifted, with Gilgeous-Alexander emerging as a face of the league. His silky scoring, defensive tenacity, and clutch performances make him a nightmare matchup. As OKC builds around him, the question isn’t if he’ll win more hardware, but how much. This season’s dual MVP triumph is just the beginning.
A Legacy in the Making
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 2024-25 season redefined greatness. Becoming the first player in 12 years to win both NBA MVP and Finals MVP, he led the Thunder to a historic championship. His scoring prowess, leadership, and poise under pressure place him among the game’s immortals. At 26, he’s not just a star—he’s a generational talent with a trophy case to prove it. Oklahoma City’s rise signals a new era, and Gilgeous-Alexander is its beating heart.
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