By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The global dominance of European talent took center stage once again in the 2025-26 Kia NBA Most Valuable Player race, demonstrating that the continent remains an absolute powerhouse.
While Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander secured the Michael Jordan Trophy in historic, consecutive fashion, European superstars prominently commanded the top tier of the final voting results. Their spectacular seasons captivated fans worldwide and ensured that the international presence heavily shaped the podium.
Serbia’s Nikola Jokic led the contingent by finishing as the runner-up. The versatile center of the Denver Nuggets collected 634 total points, fueled by ten first-place, 48 second-place, and 37 third-place selections from the media panel.
Right behind him was France’s Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs, who claimed the third spot as the final finalist. The towering defender and dynamic playmaker tallied 569 points, anchored by an impressive haul of five first-place votes, 36 second-place votes, and 47 third-place votes.
Further down, Slovenia’s Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers reinforced Europe’s elite status by securing a high placement. He gathered 250 total points, combining one second-place, eight third-place, and a sweeping majority of lower-tier votes to solidify his position.
Outside of the European heavyweights, American stars also populated the remaining selections. Cade Cunningham of the Detroit Pistons made a strong statement by capturing the final two remaining first-place votes, totaling 117 points. Jaylen Brown of the Boston Celtics ended up with 89 points, while Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers and Donovan Mitchell of the Cleveland Cavaliers received one point apiece.