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6h ago

Victor Wembanyama Stakes MVP Claim as Spurs Clinch Southwest Division

He argues for MVP on defense, OKC results, plus offense that shows up beyond points.

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DENVER, COLORADO - FEBRUARY 01: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander #2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder controls the ball against the Denver Nuggets during the fourth quarter at Ball Arena on February 1, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Tafoya/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Victor Wembanyama, who powered San Antonio’s 136-111 win in Miami on Monday, said he wants to end the MVP debate by season’s end.
  • Following the victory that clinched the Southwest Division and moved the Spurs to 54-18, he pointed to three pillars: defensive value, a near sweep of the Thunder, and offensive impact beyond scoring.
  • He leads the league with 3.0 blocks per game and averages 24.3 points and 11.2 rebounds, with coaches and reporters highlighting his rim protection and on‑off defensive swing.
  • Sportsbooks place him third in MVP odds behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Dončić, and the NBA’s 65-game rule leaves him room to miss no more than three games.
  • Spurs coach Mitch Johnson said Wembanyama “affects as much of the game” as any player he has seen, as voters weigh his two-way case against stars like Gilgeous-Alexander and Nikola Jokić.