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Jokic Ties Russell, Wembanyama Hits 25-12-3 Milestone

5/19/2026

Summary

Wembanyama MVP Race

Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs finished third in MVP voting, putting him in line for his first All-NBA first-team selection.
Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets finished second, matching Bill Russell’s record of six straight top-two MVP finishes.
Wembanyama joined Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bob McAdoo, Hakeem Olajuwon and David Robinson as the only players since 1972 to average at least 25 points, 12 rebounds and 3 blocks in a season.

Summary

Wembanyama MVP Debate

An NBA executive told The Athletic’s John Hollinger that Victor Wembanyama is the best player they have ever seen.
Critics say MVP voters still favor scoring, ignoring Wembanyama’s ability to erase opponents’ actions and dominate the paint.
Analysts warn that the award’s criteria could push Wembanyama toward a greater offensive focus.
The discussion notes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP win shows that defensive excellence alone is insufficient for the honor.

History

Historical Context

Olajuwon’s 1994 season made him the only player to win MVP, Defensive Player of the Year and Finals MVP together, a feat still unmatched. The Defensive Player award, created in 1982-83 and renamed the Hakeem Olajuwon Trophy in 2022, has traditionally honored big men, yet recent winner Victor Wembanyama shows defensive stars now must also excel offensively to earn MVP votes.

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Wembanyama MVP Race

Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs finished third in MVP voting, putting him in line for his first All-NBA first-team selection.
Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets finished second, matching Bill Russell’s record of six straight top-two MVP finishes.
Wembanyama joined Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bob McAdoo, Hakeem Olajuwon and David Robinson as the only players since 1972 to average at least 25 points, 12 rebounds and 3 blocks in a season.

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