Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic, or Wembanyama: Who Wins 2026 NBA MVP?

The race for the 2026 NBA MVP award features three towering talents vying for the prestigious honor.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 3:07am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the intense movements and competition of three NBA players - Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, and Victor Wembanyama - as they vie for the 2026 MVP award, their figures fractured and overlapping in a dynamic, abstract composition.Three towering talents battle for the 2026 NBA MVP award, their unique skills and leadership styles colliding in a high-stakes competition.Oklahoma City Today

The 2026 NBA MVP race is shaping up to be an intriguing one, with three standout players in the spotlight: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets, and Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs. Each player brings unique skills and leadership to their respective teams, making a strong case for the coveted MVP award.

Why it matters

The 2026 NBA MVP race is significant as it features three of the league's most dominant players, each with the potential to lead their teams to success. The outcome of this race will not only determine the individual award but also shape the narrative around the NBA's elite talent and the future direction of the league.

The details

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, or SGA, has emerged as a force to be reckoned with, leading Canada to impressive finishes in international competitions and averaging 31.1 points per game for the Thunder this season. Nikola Jokic, the Serbian powerhouse, is a triple-double machine and is on pace to lead the league in both rebounds and assists. Victor Wembanyama, the French sensation, is a two-way player extraordinaire, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the court and helping the Spurs become one of the league's best teams.

  • SGA led Canada to a third-place finish at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup and a quarter-final appearance at the 2024 Olympics.
  • Jokic nearly averaged a triple-double with 18.8 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 8.7 assists at the 2024 Olympics.
  • Wembanyama was France's leading scorer and rebounder at the 2024 Olympics, averaging 15.8 points and 9.7 rebounds per game.
  • This season, SGA is averaging 31.1 points per game for the Thunder, second only to Luka Doncic's 33.5.
  • Jokic is on pace to become the first player to lead the NBA in both rebounds and assists.
  • Wembanyama is averaging 24.8 points, 11.5 rebounds, and a league-best 3.1 blocks per game in his third NBA season.

The players

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

A Canadian basketball player who plays for the Oklahoma City Thunder. He led Canada to a third-place finish at the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup and a quarter-final appearance at the 2024 Olympics.

Nikola Jokic

A Serbian basketball player who plays for the Denver Nuggets. He nearly averaged a triple-double at the 2024 Olympics and is on pace to lead the NBA in both rebounds and assists this season.

Victor Wembanyama

A French basketball player who plays for the San Antonio Spurs. He was France's leading scorer and rebounder at the 2024 Olympics and is averaging 24.8 points, 11.5 rebounds, and a league-best 3.1 blocks per game in his third NBA season.

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What they’re saying

“Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has taken his game to new heights this season, leading the Thunder with his scoring prowess and playmaking ability.”

— Kendrick Perkins, NBA Analyst

“Nikola Jokic's ability to impact the game in so many ways makes him a true MVP candidate year after year.”

— Chauncey Billups, Head Coach, Denver Nuggets

“Victor Wembanyama's two-way dominance is a sight to behold, and he's only scratching the surface of his potential.”

— Gregg Popovich, Head Coach, San Antonio Spurs

What’s next

The 2026 NBA MVP race will likely come down to the final games of the season, as each player looks to lead their team to success and cement their place as the league's most valuable player.

The takeaway

The 2026 NBA MVP race features three exceptional players who have each made a strong case for the award. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, and Victor Wembanyama have all demonstrated their ability to impact the game in unique ways, making this one of the most compelling MVP races in recent memory.