NBA Awards Ballots Released for 2026 Season
The NBA has distributed its official ballots for the 2025-26 end-of-season awards, following a ruling regarding Luka Doncic and Cade Cunningham and the 65-game rule. The ballots cover seven individual awards, including Most Valuable Player, Defensive Player of the Year, and Rookie of the Year.
Also included are Coach of the Year, Sixth Man of the Year, Most Improved Player, and Clutch Player of the Year. Voters will also select three All-NBA teams, two All-Defense units, and two All-Rookie squads.
Gilgeous-Alexander Favoured for MVP
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander is a leading candidate for the MVP award. He previously topped the MVP straw poll. His performance helped the Thunder achieve 64 wins, even while dealing with injuries.
Jokic and Wembanyama in Close Competition
Nikola Jokic and Victor Wembanyama are in contention for the second spot. Jokic became the first player to lead the NBA in rebounds and assists per game while averaging a triple-double for the second straight season. Wembanyama is the first player since Shaquille O’Neal in 2000 to average 25 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks.
The Spurs outscored opponents by 17 points per 100 possessions with Wembanyama on the court. Jokic played 2,265 minutes compared to Wembanyama’s 1,866.
Doncic and Cunningham’s Eligibility
The NBA’s ruling on the 65-game threshold simplified the final choices. Doncic led the league in points per game (33.5), 30-point games (28) and 40-point games (14) while keeping the Lakers in contention for a top-3 seed. Cunningham’s performance boosted Detroit to their best season in a generation.
Wembanyama a Strong Rookie of the Year Candidate
Wembanyama is a strong contender for Rookie of the Year. He reached the 65-game threshold in the second-to-last game of the season. He leads the league in blocks and combined steals and blocks.
Holmgren is also in contention for the award. Wembanyama and Holmgren finished either one-two in many categories.
All ballots are due by 3 p.m. ET Friday.