With the dominance of international players in today’s game, the possibility of a European player snatching the NBA Finals MVP title feels more real than ever. Players like Nikola Jokić, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Luka Dončić are not just competing; they’re redefining how basketball is played. But does that generous helping of talent mean a European star is set to shine brightest in this year’s NBA Finals? Let’s break it all down.
The Rise of European Dominance in the NBA
For decades, European players were considered a ‘nice to have’ rather than the foundations of a successful NBA campaign. Fast forward to today, and players like Jokić and Giannis are perennial MVP candidates with Finals MVP honors already under their belts. Together, they’ve paved the way for skilled, versatile European players to make lasting impacts.
Consider the recent FIBA records—Serbians, Greeks, and French players have snagged individual accolades left and right. Jokić secured his third MVP award and led the Denver Nuggets to their first NBA championship in 2023, earning the Finals MVP title. And Giannis? The “Greek Freak” carried the Milwaukee Bucks to a championship in 2021, cementing his place in basketball history.
Even younger stars like Victor Wembanyama (Rookie of the Year in 2024) are proving that the pipeline of talent from Europe is still pumping out quality players.
Who Are the Contenders This Season?
Several European stars are either carrying their teams into deep playoff runs or are positioned as pivotal contributors. Based on FanDuel NBA odds, here’s a quick rundown of the top candidates this season.
Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets)
If consistency had a poster boy, it would be Jokić. His ability to control games with elite playmaking, scoring, and rebounding makes him a top contender every time Denver gets near the Finals. Coming off another triple-double-filled season, there’s little reason to doubt that his Finals MVP odds are as good as anyone’s.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks)
Though injuries have been a lingering issue for Giannis, when healthy, he’s nearly unstoppable. His two-way dominance disrupts defenses like few can. If the Bucks reach the Finals, betting against Giannis would be a mistake.
Luka Dončić (LA Lakers)
Luka hasn’t won a ring yet but he did make the NBA Finals last year. After his blockbuster trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, if this is his year, expect magic. His ability to dominate games—dropping triple-doubles while barely breaking a sweat—has already put him on track to become one of the league’s all-time greats. Could this be the season he adds Finals MVP to his resume?
Dark Horses
It’s not all about Jokić, Giannis, or Luka but the alternatives are falling off somewhat. Lauri Markkanen (Utah Jazz) and Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs) were the obvious choices for making headlines for their performances this year before the season began. Markannen’s Jazz however aren’t exactly setting the world alight. Meanwhile Wembanayama is done for the season.
What Do the Stats Say?
Jokić is leading the pack statistically. Averaging nearly 30 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists this season, the Nuggets’ offense revolves around him. At the same time, Giannis continues to be a double-double powerhouse, and Luka’s league-leading scoring performances keep Dallas competitive.
Numbers aside, Finals MVPs often come down to narrative. If a European star is pushing his team to victory with clutch performances, the stage seems set for another international player to claim the award.
If you bet on basketball, keep a keen eye out for NBA betting insights that can give you the edge in picking this year’s NBA Finals MVP.
Why This Matters for the NBA
The increasing prominence of European players isn’t just exciting for basketball fans—it’s reshaping the league’s future. The NBA is more global than it’s ever been, and international stars have shifted the fan base and business priorities.
The Finals MVP award waits for no one. If a European player wants it, they’ll need to deliver remarkable performances when it matters most. But based on both talent and trends, the chances of another European claiming this year’s Finals MVP look better than good—they feel expected.
Can players like Jokić, Giannis, or Luka rise to the occasion again? Or will an unexpected star steal the spotlight this year? Only time will tell (but the odds give us some hints).
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