Cade Cunningham sprints into Top 5 of Kia MVP Ladder

All-Star Weekend approaches as international players dominate the MVP race

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Cade Cunningham, the Dallas-born star of the Detroit Pistons, has risen two spots and into the top 5 of the latest Kia MVP Ladder. This comes as international players continue to dominate the MVP race, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder still leading the way. The article also highlights the strong performances of other top MVP candidates like Luka Dončić, Nikola Jokić, and Victor Wembanyama.

Why it matters

The NBA's shift towards international talent has been a major storyline this season, with four of the top 5 MVP candidates hailing from outside the United States. This reflects the growing global influence and appeal of the league. Cunningham's rise into the top 5 also showcases the emergence of young American stars who can compete with the international talent.

The details

Cade Cunningham has been tremendous for the Pistons, averaging 25.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 9.8 assists per game. He has outplayed fellow MVP candidates like Nikola Jokić and Steph Curry in recent games, helping the Pistons surge towards the top of the Western Conference standings. Cunningham's strong play has put him firmly in the MVP conversation alongside international stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Luka Dončić and Victor Wembanyama.

  • Cade Cunningham was named a starter for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
  • The NBA's new All-Star Game format will feature a team of international players competing against two American teams.

The players

Cade Cunningham

The 24-year-old star of the Detroit Pistons, born and raised in Dallas, Texas.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

The 24-year-old point guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder, leading the MVP Ladder for most of the last 15 months.

Luka Dončić

The 27-year-old superstar for the Los Angeles Lakers, currently the league's scoring leader.

Nikola Jokić

The 28-year-old center for the Denver Nuggets, a two-time MVP who is making a strong bid for a third award.

Victor Wembanyama

The 21-year-old rookie sensation for the San Antonio Spurs, making an immediate impact with his two-way dominance.

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What they’re saying

“The reality is we have an American-born MVP candidate in Cade Cunningham. Number one in the league, leading the league in assists, putting up 27 points a game … Cade Cunningham is as special of a player as we have in the league today.”

— Draymond Green, Warriors forward (NBA.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

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