Mike Breen Sparks MVP Controversy: Slams NBA Decision as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Wins Over Jokić and Giannis, Declares ‘Nikola Is the Real MVP’
The 2024-2025 NBA season concluded with a surprising and somewhat divisive MVP announcement: Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named the league’s Most Valuable Player, beating out perennial contenders Nikola Jokić and Giannis Antetokounmpo. While Shai’s stellar performance throughout the season earned him the accolade in the eyes of voters, not everyone in the basketball world was pleased. Longtime ESPN commentator Mike Breen sparked heated discussions when he openly criticized the decision, saying, “Nikola is the real MVP.”
Mike Breen, known for his signature “Bang!” calls and generally measured commentary, rarely wades into controversy. However, his remarks following the MVP announcement reflected a broader sentiment among fans and analysts who believe Nikola Jokić, the Denver Nuggets’ superstar center, had once again proven himself to be the league’s most dominant and complete player. Breen emphasized Jokić’s unmatched consistency, versatility, and impact on both ends of the court as reasons he believed the Serbian big man was more deserving of the award.
Jokić, a two-time MVP already, delivered another historic season, averaging 26.4 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 9.4 assists per game while leading the Nuggets to one of the top records in the Western Conference. His all-around brilliance, efficiency, and ability to elevate his teammates are hallmarks of his game and have become benchmarks for MVP-level play.
In contrast, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander dazzled fans with his offensive firepower, leading the league with 32.8 points per game and driving the Thunder to a remarkable 57-25 record. Shai’s emergence as a superstar has been a major storyline of the season. Yet for many critics like Breen, the MVP should reward sustained excellence and holistic impact—areas where they argue Jokić continues to excel above all.
Breen’s remarks touch on a larger, long-standing issue with MVP voting: narrative fatigue and the desire for fresh storylines. Voters may have leaned toward Shai not solely based on numbers, but because of the excitement surrounding Oklahoma City’s resurgence and his breakthrough season. This trend, critics argue, can sometimes overshadow consistent greatness from players like Jokić or even Giannis Antetokounmpo, who had another dominant year in Milwaukee.
The debate has reignited calls for a more transparent and possibly redefined MVP voting process. Should the award honor the best statistical season? The most media-friendly storyline? The player most critical to their team’s success? Breen’s vocal stance is a reminder that the MVP conversation is as subjective as it is statistical.
Ultimately, while Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s MVP win is a well-deserved milestone in a rising career, Mike Breen’s critique highlights how the MVP award often serves as a mirror reflecting broader debates about value, legacy, and consistency. The conversation will likely continue well into the offseason, with fans and analysts alike questioning not only who wins the MVP, but why they do.
