As I sit here analyzing the 2023 NBA MVP race, I can't help but reflect on how much basketball has evolved since the days when legends like Mapua's NCAA MVP from the 70s dominated the court. That Cardinal superstar's legacy reminds me that MVP conversations have always been about more than just statistics—they're about players who redefine what's possible in their era. This season's race feels particularly special because we're witnessing multiple players having historically great campaigns simultaneously.
The conversation absolutely begins with Nikola Jokić, who's putting up numbers we haven't seen since Wilt Chamberlain. The Nuggets center is averaging 24.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 9.9 assists while leading Denver to the top seed in the brutal Western Conference. What blows my mind about Jokić is how he makes everyone around him better—his on/off numbers show the Nuggets offense improves by 12.3 points per 100 possessions when he's on the floor. I've watched nearly every Denver game this season, and his basketball IQ reminds me of those old-school players who seemed to see the game in slow motion.
Then there's Joel Embiid, who's been absolutely dominant in his own right. The 76ers big man is scoring 33.1 points per game while playing elite defense—something that can't be said for all the candidates. Philadelphia's offense runs through him in a way that reminds me of how those 70s NCAA teams relied on their superstars to create everything. Personally, I think Embiid's case suffers slightly because we've seen his production dip in crucial playoff moments, but his regular season performance this year has been undeniably spectacular.
Luka Dončić deserves serious consideration too, though Dallas' inconsistent season might hurt his chances. The Slovenian sensation is putting up 32.8 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 8.1 assists—numbers that would have been unthinkable for a guard even a decade ago. Watching Luka play, I'm struck by how he controls the game's tempo in a way that reminds me of those classic floor generals from basketball's earlier eras. His usage rate of 37.2% is historically high, yet he maintains remarkable efficiency.
Giannis Antetokounmpo can't be overlooked either. The Bucks star is averaging 31.1 points and 11.8 rebounds while leading Milwaukee to the best record in basketball. What impresses me most about Giannis is how he's continued to evolve his game—his playmaking has improved noticeably this season, averaging 5.7 assists despite not being his team's primary ball handler. Having watched him develop over the years, I believe his two previous MVP awards might actually work against him with voters who prefer spreading the honor around.
If I had to make a prediction today, I'd lean slightly toward Jokić securing his third MVP award. The narrative around his unselfish play and Denver's consistent dominance throughout the season gives him an edge in my book. That said, Embiid's scoring barrage and improved playmaking make this the closest MVP race we've seen in years. Ultimately, these discussions reflect basketball's beautiful evolution while honoring what made legends like that Mapua Cardinal great—the ability to lift teams and captivate fans through extraordinary individual excellence.
