The word ‘valuable’ can have different meanings to different people but, in the NBA, it’s all about the performance. The National Basketball Association is a realm where legends are born, records are shattered, and every dribble and dunk tells a story.
Among the myriad of accolades that players aspire to achieve, the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award stands out as the pinnacle of individual recognition. It’s not just about the points scored or games won; it’s a testament to a player’s impact, leadership, and ability to elevate their team to greatness. In this article, we delve into the history, significance, and illustrious list of athletes who have etched their names into basketball immortality by clinching the coveted MVP title. Join us as we celebrate the best of the best in the NBA.
MVP NBA History
Eyes on the prize
During the 1955 – 1966 season, the NBA (National Basketball Association) has been recognising the best performing player of the season with the NBA MVP award. The winner of this prestigious award receives the Maurice Podoloff Trophy which is named in honour of the NBA’s former president and first commissioner, who played in the NBA from 1946 to 1963.
Casting a vote
From its inception until 1980, the recipient of this coveted award was decided by votes from NBA players, however, this was changed during the 1980-1981 season and, these days, the winner is chosen by a voting panel made up of broadcasters and sports writers. Each member of the panel casts their vote for first place down to fifth place – these votes are scored as follows:
- First place 10 points
- Second place 7 points
- Third place 5 points
- Four place 1 point
- Fifth place 1 point
The winner of the NBA Most Valuable Player will be the highest point scorer.
Cheers and controversy
“I’m not one who likes to be honored, to be honest with you. That’s never been who I am”. Jerry West
The first ever MVP award recipient was Jerry West of the Los Angeles Lakers who, like many eligible players, was also inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. It goes without saying that competition for the MVP award is fierce – and the fans are not always delighted with the result.
In 1990, many fans (and players) were outraged when the award was given to Magic Johnson. Although Johnson had had a fantastic season, many people firmly believed that the MVP should have gone to Charles Barkley who actually received more first place votes (38) than Magic Johnson (27). Despite this, Johnson won 22 more votes overall and was therefore crowned the winner. Charles Barkley would, however, go on to bag his very own MVP in 1991.
The numbers game
The current holder of the Most Valuable Player award is 26 year old Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks. Giannis, who was born in Athens, is known for his speed, skills and 6 foot 9 height; all of which have earned him the nickname ‘The Greek Freak’.
It is possible to win the award more than once – and many have. The current record holder for the number of the most MVP awards is Kareem Abdul-Jabbar who has a staggering six MVPs in his trophy cabinet. Kareen is closely followed by Michael Jordan and Bill Russell who have both won five times.
This season, Nikola Jokić has won the Most Valuable Player award.
Conclusion
MVP winners are among some of the most revered players. Of all the NBA awards, the Most Valuable Player is considered by many to be the most important as it is purely based on player performance. While some fans may not always agree with the results, most will wait with baited breath to hear the name of their favourite player being called – and if it isn’t, there’s always next year!
