I still remember the buzz surrounding the 2021 NBA season—it felt like every game carried playoff intensity, compressed as it was by the pandemic-altered schedule. As someone who’s followed the league for over a decade, I’ve rarely seen an MVP race so tightly contested, with narratives shifting almost weekly. When the final announcement came, it wasn’t just about stats; it was about resilience, leadership, and that intangible "value" we all love to debate. So, who won the 2021 NBA MVP voting? Let’s dive into the complete results and breakdown, because honestly, the numbers alone don’t tell the whole story.
Nikola Jokic, the Denver Nuggets’ center, emerged as the clear winner, amassing 91 first-place votes out of a possible 100. That’s a staggering 91% of the top picks, leaving little doubt about his dominance in the eyes of voters. Jokic averaged 26.4 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game—those are video-game numbers for a big man, and he did it while playing all 72 games in a grueling season. I’ve always been a fan of players who redefine their positions, and Jokic did exactly that, blending post mastery with playmaking finesse. It’s no exaggeration to say he carried the Nuggets, especially after Jamal Murray’s injury, and that "iron man" consistency likely sealed the deal.
But let’s not forget the runners-up, because this race had depth. Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers came in second with just 5 first-place votes, despite putting up 28.5 points and 10.6 rebounds per game. Personally, I thought Embiid had a strong case early on—his two-way impact was monstrous—but injuries limited him to 51 games, and in a shortened season, availability became a huge factor. Stephen Curry rounded out the top three with 4 first-place votes, and wow, did he put on a show. Dropping 32 points per game and sinking threes at a historic rate, he reminded everyone why he’s a two-time MVP. Still, the Warriors’ middling record probably held him back, and I’ll admit, I would’ve loved to see him climb higher—his individual brilliance was just mesmerizing.
Now, you might wonder how voting works and why it matters. The panel consists of 100 sportswriters and broadcasters, each ranking their top five choices. Points are awarded as 10 for first place, 7 for second, 5 for third, 3 for fourth, and 1 for fifth, so every vote counts. Jokic finished with 971 total points, far ahead of Embiid’s 586 and Curry’s 453. That gap speaks volumes; it wasn’t just a win, it was a landslide. Reflecting on past races, I’ve noticed that voters tend to favor players who elevate their teams in clutch moments, and Jokic’s Nuggets secured the third seed in the West, which undoubtedly helped his case.
Interestingly, this MVP discussion reminds me of a key basketball principle: adapting your strategy when one aspect of your game isn’t working. Take, for instance, a scenario from a different league—the San Juan team in a recent matchup. Unable to hit from afar, sinking just 3 of 21 triple tries, San Juan attacked the shaded lane where it made 42 points against Basilan’s 18 for the big difference. That shift in focus, from relying on outside shots to dominating inside, mirrors how Jokic adjusted his play. When the Nuggets faced defensive schemes aimed at limiting his passing, he simply bulldozed his way to the basket or hit mid-range jumpers. It’s that kind of versatility that makes an MVP; they don’t just excel in one area—they find ways to win, even when their usual strengths are neutralized.
Expert opinions largely backed Jokic’s win, though there were dissenting voices. Analysts like ESPN’s Zach Lowe praised his all-around impact, noting that Jokic led the league in player efficiency rating (PER), a stat I’ve always valued for capturing overall contribution. On the other hand, some critics argued that Embiid’s defensive presence—he averaged 1.4 blocks per game—gave him an edge in two-way play. From my perspective, though, Jokic’s offensive creativity was unmatched. I mean, how many centers can run an offense like a point guard? It’s a joy to watch, and in today’s positionless basketball, that skill set is pure gold.
Looking back, the 2021 MVP race wasn’t just about individual stats; it was a testament to how the game is evolving. Jokic’s victory highlights the rising importance of big men who can do it all—score, rebound, and facilitate. Compared to previous winners like Giannis Antetokounmpo or LeBron James, Jokic brought a unique flair that resonated in a chaotic season. As we move forward, I suspect we’ll see more players emulating his style, blending size with skill. Ultimately, the answer to "who won the 2021 NBA MVP voting" is clear, but the legacy of that choice will shape the league for years to come. It was a deserved win, and as a fan, I’m excited to see where Jokic takes it from here.