Thunder's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Poised for MVP Glory

The young star's dominant season has Oklahoma City atop the NBA standings.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:49pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A vibrant, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a basketball game, with the players and court fragmented into sharp, geometric shapes and planes of color.Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's MVP-caliber season has the Thunder poised for a deep playoff run.Oklahoma City Today

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the standout guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder, is widely expected to be named the 2025-26 NBA MVP after leading his team to the league's best record at 62-16. The Thunder hold a commanding 11.5-game lead over the third-place Nuggets, thanks in large part to Gilgeous-Alexander's stellar two-way play.

Why it matters

Gilgeous-Alexander's potential MVP award would cement his status as one of the NBA's elite players and continue the Thunder's remarkable turnaround after several down seasons. At just 23 years old, he is poised to become one of the faces of the league for years to come.

The details

Gilgeous-Alexander is averaging a career-high 27.8 points per game to go along with 7.2 assists, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.6 steals. He has been the driving force behind the Thunder's league-best net rating, which has them firmly atop the Western Conference standings.

  • The Thunder currently hold a 62-16 record, 2.5 games ahead of the second-place Spurs.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The 23-year-old guard is the standout star of the Oklahoma City Thunder, leading the team to the NBA's best record this season.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The NBA franchise based in Oklahoma City, currently holding the league's best record at 62-16.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Shai has taken his game to another level this season, and it's no surprise he's the frontrunner for MVP. He's the engine that makes this Thunder team go.”

— Sam Presti, Thunder General Manager

What’s next

Gilgeous-Alexander is expected to be named the 2025-26 NBA MVP in the coming weeks, capping off a dominant season for the young superstar.

The takeaway

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's breakout campaign has the Oklahoma City Thunder firmly atop the NBA standings, and the 23-year-old guard is poised to claim his first career MVP award, solidifying his status as one of the league's elite players.