2025 NBA MVP race heating up: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, and other top contenders lead the charge

As of March 25, 2025, the race for the NBA MVP is heating up with a few key players emerging as strong contenders. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA) of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets are currently at the forefront of the conversation, while other stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Stephen Curry remain firmly in the mix. With only a few weeks left in the regular season, the MVP race has become more competitive than ever, and the final performances of these players could be the deciding factor.

*Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (SGA)*
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has had a career-defining season, and his impressive play has propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder into the upper echelon of the Western Conference. Averaging an outstanding 32.9 points per game, SGA leads the league in scoring and has shown no signs of slowing down. His all-around game, including a solid defensive presence and playmaking ability, has made him one of the most versatile players in the league. 

His contributions have not only elevated his own status but have also significantly impacted the Thunder's success. OKC currently holds a commanding 12.5-game lead in the Western Conference, largely due to SGA’s leadership and clutch performances throughout the season. What stands out even more is the way he’s embraced the role of the face of the franchise, as he has quickly become one of the most marketable and popular players in the NBA. Off the court, his presence is growing, with over 1.1 million Instagram followers, more than double the combined following of the top four teams in the tournament, including USC, UCLA, South Carolina, and Texas. SGA has certainly positioned himself as the new star of women's basketball. 

With a rising star like SGA leading the charge, the Thunder’s success in the postseason will be closely tied to how well he can continue to carry the load and navigate the pressure of competing for the MVP award. 

*Nikola Jokić*
Nikola Jokić, the two-time reigning MVP, is once again making his case for the prestigious award in 2025. The Denver Nuggets center is averaging a staggering triple-double, with 29.1 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 10.3 assists per game. His ability to facilitate the game as a center and lead his team from the middle of the floor has made him arguably the most complete player in the league today.

Jokić’s stats are not just eye-popping—they are historically significant. His current numbers are surpassing the remarkable MVP season Michael Jordan had in 1998. Jokić’s mastery of the game on both ends of the floor, combined with his exceptional passing and rebounding ability, puts him in a class of his own, making him a serious contender for a third consecutive MVP award. While his team, the Nuggets, are among the top contenders in the Western Conference, it’s Jokić’s all-around play that has helped elevate them to new heights. Denver currently sits near the top of the standings, and Jokić’s performance is integral to their title aspirations.

Jokić has built a reputation not only for his play on the court but also for his humility and team-first attitude, making him one of the most beloved stars in the league. With his continued dominance, he remains a top candidate for MVP, and it would be no surprise if he were to take home the honor for the third consecutive year.

*Other Top MVP Contenders*

*Giannis Antetokounmpo*
Another player who remains firmly in the MVP conversation is Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Giannis has consistently delivered elite performances on both ends of the floor. As the reigning Finals MVP, he has the ability to take over a game whenever he chooses, and his defensive presence is unmatched. While Giannis' scoring and rebounding numbers are down slightly compared to previous seasons, his all-around impact on the court is undeniable. He is still averaging over 30 points per game and is the focal point of one of the NBA’s best teams. If the Bucks continue to perform at a high level, Giannis will likely continue to garner MVP votes as the season draws to a close.

*Stephen Curry*
Despite missing several games due to injury this season, Stephen Curry remains one of the most potent offensive players in the league. Curry’s shooting ability is still unparalleled, and if he can stay healthy and meet the 65-game eligibility requirement, he could find himself back in the MVP race. His playmaking and leadership have been key to the Golden State Warriors' success, and Curry is always a threat to turn a game around with his incredible shooting range. If the Warriors continue to rise in the standings, Curry could add another MVP trophy to his already illustrious career.

*The Future of the MVP Race*
With the regular season winding down, the MVP race is still very much up in the air. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokić, and other contenders like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Stephen Curry are all putting together impressive campaigns, and it could come down to the final few games of the season to decide the winner. Each of these players has brought something unique to the table, and their performances down the stretch will be crucial in determining who takes home the most coveted individual honor in the NBA.

As the MVP race intensifies, fans will be watching closely to see how these superstars finish out the season and whether they can carry their teams deep into the playoffs. With MVP candidates like SGA, Jokić, and others, the 2025 NBA season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and competitive in recent memory.

*Conclusion*
As of March 25, 2025, the MVP race is as tight as ever, with several players jockeying for position. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokić are currently leading the way, but Giannis Antetokounmpo and Stephen Curry are also keeping pace. With the final stretch of the regular season approaching, it will be fascinating to see who emerges as the top contender and ultimately takes home the MVP award. The performances in the coming weeks will have a significant impact on the final decision, and fans can expect plenty of drama and excitement as the race concludes.