NBA Makes Historical Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Announcement on Sunday
NBA Makes Historical Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Announcement on Sunday originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander captured his first Most Valuable Player trophy this past season, averaging 32.7 points, 5.0 rebounds and 6.4 assists per game.
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The Kentucky product didn't just prove that he's a superstar, but that he's among the best players in the entire league right now.
The Thunder, behind the play of Gilgeous-Alexander, won 68 games and has been just as successful throughout the playoffs.
Oklahoma City is headed to its first NBA Finals since 2012 -- which was a 4-1 loss to the Miami Heat. Now, they're taking on the Indiana Pacers as they aim to raise their first banner in franchise history.
Of course, the superstar guard had a remarkable supporting cast, led by Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren, as they are the most connected team in the NBA.
Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) with the Michael Jordan Trophy for winning the most valuable player award for the 2024-25 season.© Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
Ahead of the NBA Finals tipping off later this week, the league made a historical announcement regarding Gilgeous-Alexander and his incredible season.
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Gilgeous-Alexander is the eighth player in NBA history to win his first MVP and make his first NBA Finals appearance in the same season.
"Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is the 8th player in NBA history to achieve both for the first time in the same season!" the NBA announced on Sunday.
The feat was most recently achieved by Stephen Curry in 2015, with Allen Iverson being the third most recent in 2001, showing just how rare Gilgeous-Alexander's feat is.
The Thunder's emergence as a contender has been rapid and loud -- led by Gilgeous-Alexander -- as they aim to cap off their arrival with a championship.
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Oklahoma City opens as a significant favorite over the Pacers in the Finals, as they should be able to play as the more talented and deeper team, also owning home court advantage to start the series.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
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