The NBA Basketball MVP List is a prestigious compilation that highlights the most outstanding players in the league each season. This coveted award is not just about scoring the most points; it reflects a player's overall impact on their team's success. In this article, we will delve into the history of the MVP award, explore the criteria for selection, and provide a detailed list of winners over the years. Whether you are a die-hard basketball fan or just curious about the MVP award, this comprehensive guide will give you all the insights you need.
Since its inception in the 1955-56 season, the MVP award has evolved and become one of the most anticipated announcements in sports. Players like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar have all left indelible marks on this award's history. We will discuss their contributions and the seasons that earned them the MVP title. In addition, we will examine other notable players who have clinched this title, ensuring that you have a complete understanding of the MVP landscape.
This article aims to provide readers with not only a list of MVP winners but also insights into what it takes to be named the Most Valuable Player in the NBA. From statistics to intangibles, we will cover all aspects that contribute to a player's MVP candidacy. So, let's jump right into the world of NBA Basketball MVPs!
Table of Contents
- History of the NBA MVP Award
- Criteria for MVP Selection
- List of NBA MVP Winners
- Notable MVP Winners
- Impact of the MVP Award
- Recent NBA MVP Winners
- Future of the MVP Award
- Conclusion
History of the NBA MVP Award
The NBA MVP award was first introduced during the 1955-56 season. The inaugural winner was Bob Pettit of the St. Louis Hawks, who showcased his scoring prowess and playmaking abilities. Over the years, the award has undergone several changes in terms of voting procedures and criteria.
Initially, the MVP award was decided by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters, but in 1980, the voting process changed to include players and coaches. This shift aimed to provide a more comprehensive view of a player's impact on the game.
Throughout its history, the MVP award has celebrated a diverse group of players, each bringing their unique style and skills to the court. From the dominance of Bill Russell in the 1960s to the flashy play of Magic Johnson and Larry Bird in the 1980s, the MVP list reflects the evolution of basketball itself.
Criteria for MVP Selection
Being named the NBA MVP requires more than just individual statistics. The selection process considers several key factors, including:
- Team Success: A player's impact on their team's performance is crucial. MVP candidates often play for teams that are among the best in the league.
- Individual Statistics: Points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks all contribute to a player's candidacy. However, the context of these statistics is equally essential.
- Leadership: The ability to inspire teammates and lead by example is a significant factor in MVP consideration.
- Defensive Ability: While offense tends to dominate discussions, strong defensive performances can elevate a player's MVP candidacy.
List of NBA MVP Winners
Here is a comprehensive list of NBA MVP winners from the inception of the award to the present:
Year | Player | Team |
---|---|---|
1955-56 | Bob Pettit | St. Louis Hawks |
1956-57 | Bill Russell | Boston Celtics |
1957-58 | Bill Russell | Boston Celtics |
1958-59 | Bill Russell | Boston Celtics |
1959-60 | Wilt Chamberlain | Philadelphia Warriors |
1960-61 | Bill Russell | Boston Celtics |
1961-62 | Wilt Chamberlain | Philadelphia Warriors |
1962-63 | Bill Russell | Boston Celtics |
1963-64 | Oscar Robertson | Cincinnati Royals |
1964-65 | Bill Russell | Boston Celtics |
1965-66 | Wilt Chamberlain | Philadelphia 76ers |
1966-67 | Wilt Chamberlain | Philadelphia 76ers |
1967-68 | Wilt Chamberlain | Philadelphia 76ers |
1968-69 | Walt Frazier | New York Knicks |
1969-70 | Willis Reed | New York Knicks |
1970-71 | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar | Milwaukee Bucks |
1971-72 | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar | Milwaukee Bucks |
1972-73 | Dave Cowens | Boston Celtics |
1973-74 | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar | Milwaukee Bucks |
1974-75 | Bob McAdoo | Buffalo Braves |
1975-76 | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar | Los Angeles Lakers |
1976-77 | Kareem Abdul-Jabbar | Los Angeles Lakers |
1977-78 | Bill Walton | Portland Trail Blazers |
1978-79 | Dave Cowens | Boston Celtics |
1979-80 | Magic Johnson | Los Angeles Lakers |
1980-81 | Julius Erving | Philadelphia 76ers |
1981-82 | Mark Aguirre | Dallas Mavericks |
1982-83 | Moses Malone | Philadelphia 76ers |
1983-84
|