Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named the NBA Most Valuable Player for the second straight year, solidifying his place among the league's elite. The 26-year-old Canadian star led the Thunder to the best record in the Western Conference, averaging 31.2 points, 6.8 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game while shooting 53.5% from the field.
Gilgeous-Alexander became the first Thunder player to win back-to-back MVPs since Kevin Durant, and only the 12th player in NBA history to achieve the feat. His combination of scoring efficiency, playmaking, and defense made him a near-unanimous choice, receiving 98 of 100 first-place votes.
"This award is a testament to the hard work of my teammates and coaches," Gilgeous-Alexander said in a press release. "We have a special group in Oklahoma City, and I'm excited to continue chasing a championship."
The Thunder now turn their attention to the playoffs, where they will look to capitalize on Gilgeous-Alexander's historic performance to secure their first title since 2012.