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No American MVP Since 2018 as International Stars Dominate

5/20/2026

Summary

NBA Lacks Americans

The NBA has not produced an American-born MVP since James Harden won in 2018.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece) won twice, Nikola Jokic (Serbia) three times, Joel Embiid (Cameroon) once, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Canada) twice.
All five American MVPs—LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, James Harden, Russell Westbrook—are now at least 36.
Analysts say the 65-game rule—met by only 169 of 569 players in 2024-25—and voter fatigue curb MVP dominance.

Summary

NBA Expands

NBA will add two teams—likely Seattle and Las Vegas—for 2028-29, reshaping conferences and creating new MVP chances for Minnesota.
Four prospects—AJ Dybantsa, Darryn Peterson, Cameron Boozer, Caleb Wilson—have All-NBA upside for the 2026 draft.
Wizards, Jazz and Grizzlies each hold asset surpluses that could quickly build financially sustainable contenders.
LaMelo Ball led Charlotte to the league’s best net-rating after Jan 1, putting him in MVP talk with a top-seed Eastern finish.

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NBA Lacks Americans

The NBA has not produced an American-born MVP since James Harden won in 2018.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Greece) won twice, Nikola Jokic (Serbia) three times, Joel Embiid (Cameroon) once, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Canada) twice.
All five American MVPs—LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, James Harden, Russell Westbrook—are now at least 36.
Analysts say the 65-game rule—met by only 169 of 569 players in 2024-25—and voter fatigue curb MVP dominance.

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