Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Leads Latest NBA MVP Straw Poll

Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama Trailing Close Behind

Published on Mar. 1, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

According to the latest NBA MVP 'straw poll' conducted by ESPN's Tim Bontemps, Oklahoma City Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has maintained his lead over Denver Nuggets' Nikola Jokic. Gilgeous-Alexander received 78 first-place votes, while Jokic trailed with 18. The poll also saw a strong showing from San Antonio Spurs' rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama, who Bontemps believes could be the strongest candidate if Gilgeous-Alexander doesn't win the award.

Why it matters

The MVP race is heating up as the NBA season progresses, with several players emerging as top contenders. Gilgeous-Alexander's consistent performance and his team's position atop the standings have put him in prime position, but Jokic and the surging Wembanyama could still make a late push.

The details

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has now led Bontemps' MVP straw poll for four consecutive editions, a first in the history of the poll. Nikola Jokic, Cade Cunningham, and Victor Wembanyama were the only players to receive at least one first-place vote, with Gilgeous-Alexander being the sole player to appear on all ballots. Jokic was left off two ballots entirely.

  • Bontemps' latest MVP straw poll was conducted on February 20, 2026.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The Oklahoma City Thunder guard has been the consistent leader in the MVP race, according to the latest straw poll.

Nikola Jokic

The Denver Nuggets center is the reigning two-time NBA MVP and is currently second in the straw poll voting.

Victor Wembanyama

The San Antonio Spurs rookie sensation is making a strong case for the MVP award, especially if he can lead his team to the top of the Western Conference standings.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If Gilgeous-Alexander doesn't win the MVP award, Wembanyama could be the strongest candidate.”

— Tim Bontemps, ESPN Reporter (ESPN)

What’s next

The next NBA MVP straw poll results will be closely watched as the season progresses and the race for the award heats up.

The takeaway

The NBA MVP race is shaping up to be a thrilling battle between several talented players, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander currently leading the pack but facing stiff competition from Nikola Jokic and the rising star Victor Wembanyama.