Nikola Jokić has been named the 2025 NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), marking his third MVP award in four seasons. The Denver Nuggets center received 79 first-place votes and a total of 926 points, decisively defeating Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who garnered 15 first-place votes and 640 points. Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Dončić finished third with 566 points .([ESPN.com][1])
Jokić’s performance this season has been exceptional. He averaged 26.4 points, 12.4 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game over 79 games, completing 25 triple-doubles. Notably, he became only the second player in NBA history to record over 2,000 points, 900 rebounds, and 700 assists in a single regular season .([Sportstar][2], [BBC][3])
This achievement places Jokić among an elite group of players with three MVP awards, joining legends such as Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Moses Malone. The only players ahead of him are Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who holds the record with six MVPs, and Michael Jordan and Bill Russell, each with five .([Sportstar][2])
Despite his individual success, Jokić remains humble and credits his teammates and the entire Nuggets organization for his accomplishments. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “Without them, I cannot do nothing. Coaches, players, organization, medical staff, strength coaches, development coaches. It is all one big circle” .([beIN SPORTS][4], [ESPN.com][1])
Looking ahead, Jokić and the Nuggets are focused on their playoff run. Currently trailing 0-2 in their Western Conference semifinal series against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the team is determined to turn the series around as it shifts to Minneapolis .([Sportstar][2])
Jokić’s third MVP award not only solidifies his legacy as one of the game’s greats but also highlights his consistent excellence and leadership on the court. As the Nuggets continue their postseason journey, all eyes will be on Jokić to see if he can lead his team to another championship.