The NBA's Most Improved Player Award is a coveted honor, and this season, it's a hotly contested race. Among the contenders, Nickeil Alexander-Walker of the Atlanta Hawks has emerged as a strong favorite, thanks in no small part to the support of his cousin, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning NBA MVP and star guard for the Oklahoma City Thunder. This familial bond adds an intriguing layer to the award's prestige, as it showcases the impact of family support and mentorship in the NBA.
Alexander-Walker's rise to prominence this season has been nothing short of remarkable. His scoring average has skyrocketed from 9.4 points per game in the 2024-25 season to an impressive 20.9 points per game this season, a +11.5-point increase that ranks as the third-highest in the past 25 seasons, according to Elias Sports. This surge in scoring, coupled with career highs in rebounds (3.5), assists (3.7), and steals (1.3), has solidified his position as a key player for the Hawks. He has also become a three-point shooting specialist, making the fourth-most three-pointers in the NBA this season (248 3FGM), a record that marks both a personal best and a franchise record.
The Hawks' decision to sign Alexander-Walker away from the Minnesota Timberwolves last summer was a strategic move that has paid dividends. His ability to come off the bench and provide a scoring boost has been instrumental in Atlanta's late-season surge. The team's trade of Trae Young further solidified Alexander-Walker's role in the starting lineup, where he has thrived, becoming a cornerstone of the team's success.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's public endorsement of his cousin's award candidacy is a testament to the strong familial bond between the two. Gilgeous-Alexander's support is not just a personal statement but also a reflection of the NBA's culture of mentorship and family support. The two have shared countless life experiences, having both made it to the NBA at a similar age, and their paths have diverged since, with Gilgeous-Alexander's trade to the Thunder providing him with a different set of challenges and opportunities.
Alexander-Walker's journey to the NBA has been a testament to hard work and dedication. Despite not having the same level of playing time and freedom as his cousin, he has risen to the occasion, proving that he is ready for the spotlight. His ability to handle pressure and make significant strides in his game is a hallmark of a true professional. The fact that he is the heavy favorite to win the Most Improved Player Award is a testament to his talent and the impact he has had on the Hawks.
The NBA's Most Improved Player Award is more than just a personal achievement; it's a recognition of the team's efforts and the league's potential for growth. Alexander-Walker's story is a reminder that with the right support and mentorship, players can reach new heights. As the season winds down, the award's recipient will be a player who has not only improved individually but has also contributed significantly to their team's success, a true testament to the power of hard work and the impact of family support in the NBA.
