Oklahoma City's Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been named the NBA's Clutch Player of the Year, adding another significant award to his growing collection. The announcement, made Tuesday, places him atop the league for performance in high-pressure, late-game situations. This latest honor comes as he is also considered a leading contender for the MVP award, a title he held previously, along with NBA Finals MVP.
The Oklahoma City guard accumulated 175 points in clutch time this season, the highest in the league. He faced competition from players like Jamal Murray, who finished second in clutch points with 166 and led with 30 assists in those crucial moments, and Anthony Edwards, who recorded 135 clutch points in fewer games.
The Clutch Player of the Year award, now in its fourth year, saw Gilgeous-Alexander secure an overwhelming majority of votes, with reports indicating it was a nearly unanimous decision. He is now one of only three players, alongside Jalen Brunson and Nikola Jokic, to have received votes in every season the award has existed. Gilgeous-Alexander's consistent presence in clutch situations, even amidst his team's injury struggles, highlights his pivotal role in Oklahoma City's performance. This award marks the first time he has received this particular accolade.
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The recognition arrives on the heels of other league announcements, including Victor Wembanyama being named Defensive Player of the Year. For Gilgeous-Alexander, securing both the MVP and Clutch Player of the Year in the same season would be a historic achievement, as no player has managed this feat before. His prior accolades include being the reigning MVP and NBA Finals MVP, alongside multiple All-Star and All-NBA First Team selections.
