As I sit here analyzing the 2023 NBA MVP race, I can't help but draw parallels to the legendary NCAA performances of Co during his Mapua Cardinal days in the 70s. Watching today's NBA superstars reminds me of how Co dominated his era with that MVP-caliber season - a reminder that true greatness transcends generations. The current MVP conversation has evolved into one of the most fascinating debates I've witnessed in recent years, with several players making compelling cases through their extraordinary performances.
The frontrunner in my view has to be Nikola Jokić, and I'm saying this not just because of his impressive stats but because of how he's revolutionized the center position. The Joker is averaging what I believe to be around 24.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 9.9 assists per game - numbers that would make any basketball purist's eyes widen. What sets him apart for me is his basketball IQ; it's like watching a chess master in a game of checkers. His ability to control the game's tempo while making everyone around him better reminds me of those stories about Co's court vision and leadership during Mapua's campaigns. I've always valued players who elevate their teammates, and Jokić does this better than anyone in the league right now.
Then there's Giannis Antetokounmpo, who continues to be an absolute force of nature. The Greek Freak is putting up what I estimate to be 31.2 points and 11.8 rebounds per game while playing his trademark suffocating defense. His combination of power and athleticism is something we haven't seen since prime Shaq, though I must admit I sometimes worry about his long-term durability given how physically he plays. Joel Embiid makes this conversation incredibly interesting too - his scoring prowess is simply unmatched when he's healthy. The 76ers big man is likely averaging around 33.1 points per game, though his injury history does give me pause when considering his MVP credentials.
Luka Dončić deserves serious consideration as well, carrying the Mavericks' offense with what I'd guess are historic numbers - probably around 32.8 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 8.2 assists. His step-back three has become one of the league's most unstoppable moves, though Dallas' inconsistent season might hurt his chances. Jayson Tatum has been phenomenal too, leading the Celtics to what appears to be the East's best record while averaging roughly 30.2 points per game. What impresses me most about Tatum is how he's improved his playmaking and defense this season.
Thinking back to Co's NCAA MVP season, what separated him wasn't just statistics but his ability to deliver in crucial moments and lift his team to victory. That's the intangible quality I'm looking for in this year's NBA MVP race. While Jokić's all-around game makes him my personal favorite, I wouldn't be surprised if Giannis steals it with his two-way dominance. The beauty of this race is that each candidate brings something unique to the table, much like how Co brought his distinctive style to the NCAA decades ago. Ultimately, the voters will decide, but from where I stand, we're witnessing one of the most talented MVP fields in recent memory.
