Fri May 23 03:40:00 UTC 2025: **News Article Summary**
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder has been named the 2024-25 Kia NBA MVP, earning the Michael Jordan Trophy. In his acceptance speech, Gilgeous-Alexander expressed his gratitude and emphasized his ultimate goal: to bring a championship to Oklahoma City, something his predecessors Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook were unable to accomplish. Gilgeous-Alexander’s stellar season included leading the league in scoring and significantly impacting the Thunder’s league-best 68-win season. He prioritized winning and the success of his teammates. The Thunder acquired him in a trade for Paul George, where he quickly developed into a dynamic scorer and team centerpiece. The newly crowned MVP has his sights set on winning a NBA championship with his team.
**News Article**
**Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Crowned NBA MVP, Sets Sights on Championship Glory**
OKLAHOMA CITY – Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder has been awarded the 2024-25 Kia NBA MVP, solidifying his place among the league’s elite. The Thunder point guard received the Michael Jordan Trophy. In his acceptance speech, Gilgeous-Alexander expressed his gratitude to his teammates and the Thunder organization.
“Any conversation about me being with those two guys who have done amazing things,” said Shai Gilgeous-Alexander about being lumped with Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, “is hard to put into words.”
Gilgeous-Alexander made it clear that personal accolades take a back seat to his ultimate goal: a championship for Oklahoma City. The Thunder’s leader seeks to surpass the achievements of former stars Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, who despite individual success, couldn’t bring a title to the city.
Gilgeous-Alexander, who also led the league in scoring this season, played a pivotal role in the Thunder’s dominant 68-win season and top seed in the Western Conference. His impact on winning ultimately edged out fellow MVP finalists Nikola Jokic and Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Acquired in the 2019 trade that sent Paul George to the Los Angeles Clippers, Gilgeous-Alexander has surpassed all expectations, blossoming into a dynamic scorer.