The 2024–25 NBA season marked a pivotal shift in the league’s hierarchy, driven largely by the emergence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s NBA dominance. Leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the league’s best record of 68–14, Gilgeous-Alexander not only topped the scoring charts with 32.7 points per game but also earned both the regular season MVP and Finals MVP awards. This season was less about fleeting moments and more about a sustained display of skill, composure, and leadership across the entire year.
Outstanding Performances from the NBA’s Leading Players
While Gilgeous-Alexander’s impact was undeniable, the season also highlighted an impressive roster of talent pushing the game forward. Nikola Jokić of the Denver Nuggets continued to revolutionize the center position with his triple-double average—29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 10.2 assists per game—setting a new standard for efficiency and versatility. His league-leading 34 triple-doubles exemplified his all-around excellence and orchestrating ability.
Giannis Antetokounmpo maintained his reign as one of the most intimidating players on both ends of the court, posting 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists per game. His blend of physicality and consistency remains a major threat in Milwaukee’s lineup. Similarly, Luka Dončić from the Dallas Mavericks showcased elite floor vision and scoring, averaging 28.2 points with 8.2 assists and 7.7 rebounds, underscoring why he ranks among the league’s top talents despite his team falling short of breakthrough success.
The San Antonio Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama also made a significant mark, commanding attention with a defensive presence led by 3.8 blocks per game and an evolving offensive game that tallied 24.3 points and 11 rebounds. At just 19, Wembanyama’s influence signals a new way basketball is being played.
Versatile Stars Impacting Their Teams
Anthony Edwards of the Minnesota Timberwolves had a breakout campaign, leading the league in three-pointers made per game (4.1) and averaging 27.6 points while taking over his team’s offense at age 23. Boston Celtics’ Jayson Tatum continued his growth into a complete forward with a 26.8 points and 8.7 rebounds average, anchoring Boston’s playoff efforts with both offense and defense.
LeBron James reshaped the narrative on athlete longevity, recording 10 triple-doubles at 40 years old and continuing to influence games with his unmatched basketball IQ and physical prowess. In Detroit, Cade Cunningham emerged as one of the league’s most well-rounded guards, contributing 26.1 points, 9.1 assists, and 6.1 rebounds per game while demonstrating a patient, pass-first approach reminiscent of Chris Paul in his prime.
Domantas Sabonis led the league in rebounding with 13.9 boards per game and ranked among the most efficient big men, consistently providing Sacramento with double-double performances and stability in the paint.
Players Who Defined the 2024-25 Season
1. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder): 32.7 points, 6.8 assists, 5.6 rebounds per game. Awarded both MVP and Finals MVP by commanding games with unmatched leadership and consistency.
2. Nikola Jokić (Denver Nuggets): 29.6 points, 12.7 rebounds, 10.2 assists per game. Set the bar as the most efficient all-around center with 34 triple-doubles.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo (Milwaukee Bucks): 30.4 points, 11.9 rebounds, 6.5 assists per game. An imposing two-way force who remains an elite defensive presence.
4. Luka Dončić (Dallas Mavericks): 28.2 points, 8.2 assists, 7.7 rebounds per game. A creative playmaker with exceptional scoring skills despite team challenges.
5. Victor Wembanyama (San Antonio Spurs): 24.3 points, 11 rebounds, 3.8 blocks per game. A transformative big man redefining defense and potential in his second year.
6. Anthony Edwards (Minnesota Timberwolves): 27.6 points, 4.1 three-pointers made per game. A breakout young star leading his team’s scoring efforts.
7. Jayson Tatum (Boston Celtics): 26.8 points, 8.7 rebounds per game. A versatile forward who elevates both ends of the floor to lead his team.
8. LeBron James (Los Angeles Lakers): 24.4 points, 8.2 assists, 7.8 rebounds per game. Demonstrating ageless excellence and influence over the pace of play.
9. Cade Cunningham (Detroit Pistons): 26.1 points, 9.1 assists, 6.1 rebounds per game. A guard showcasing maturity and a pass-first mentality on a struggling team.
10. Domantas Sabonis (Sacramento Kings): 19.1 points, 13.9 rebounds per game. Leading the league in rebounds and anchoring his team consistently.
A Season Symbolizing the NBA’s Generational Shift
The 2024–25 campaign represents more than mere statistics — it signals a redefining moment where promising young players such as Gilgeous-Alexander, Edwards, Wembanyama, and Cunningham are poised to lead the NBA’s next era. Meanwhile, established stars including Jokić, Antetokounmpo, and James continue to demonstrate veteran mastery, anchoring the league’s present while welcoming this new chapter.
This season was a testament to the ongoing handing over of the torch in professional basketball, emphasizing that greatness transcends age and belongs to those prepared to rise. In that context, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s performance stood as a beacon of what it means to seize that moment fully.