In a defining moment of the 2024–25 NBA season, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was officially crowned the league’s Most Valuable Player. The announcement came ahead of Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals against the Minnesota Timberwolves, with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver presenting the Michael Jordan Trophy to Gilgeous-Alexander before a packed and jubilant home crowd.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP nod marks a career-defining achievement, earned through a season of consistent dominance on both ends of the floor. The 25-year-old secured 71 first-place votes, decisively outpacing other top contenders including Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jayson Tatum, Donovan Mitchell, LeBron James, and Cade Cunningham.
But beyond the on-court excellence, Gilgeous-Alexander’s win also extends a surprising off-court trend: he is the ninth consecutive MVP without tattoos. This curious statistic has held since 2016, when Stephen Curry — the last visibly tattooed MVP — won his second straight award. While Russell Westbrook, the 2016–17 MVP, now has tattoos, he only began getting them after winning the award.
Other recent tattoo-free MVPs include Nikola Jokic (2021–23), Joel Embiid (2023–24), Giannis Antetokounmpo (2019–20), and James Harden.
A City Celebrates Its Star
In recognition of Gilgeous-Alexander’s historic season, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt issued a citywide proclamation declaring May 21 as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Day. The symbolic gesture underscores the impact SGA has had not only on the franchise but on the community at large.
The Thunder’s ascension under Gilgeous-Alexander’s leadership has energized a young roster and reignited championship hopes in Oklahoma City. His poise, playmaking, and defensive presence have earned him widespread praise from fans, analysts, and peers alike.
As the Thunder continue their playoff push, Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP season now stands as a defining chapter in both his career and Oklahoma City’s basketball legacy — one that’s as ink-free as it is iconic.
Related topics: