ESPN's Tim Bontemps reveals his picks for MVP, Rookie of the Year, and every major NBA honor in what's shaping up to be a historic season.
The 2025-26 NBA season has delivered drama, breakout performances, and nail-biting award races that have kept fans on the edge of their seats. ESPN's seasoned NBA insider Tim Bontemps has now unveiled his official ballot for every major honor, and the selections reflect just how competitive this campaign has been across all categories.
Bontemps' MVP pick highlights a season where multiple superstars have legitimate claims to the league's top individual prize. The race has been so tight that several award battles remain virtually deadlocked, making this one of the most unpredictable voting cycles in recent memory. From established veterans having career years to rising stars making their mark, the depth of talent has never been more evident.
The Rookie of the Year category has been particularly fascinating, with several first-year players making immediate impacts for their franchises. Meanwhile, the Sixth Man award and All-NBA selections showcase the incredible depth throughout the league, with players from diverse backgrounds - including those with African roots - continuing to elevate the global game.
As voting deadlines approach, Bontemps' ballot serves as a barometer for how media members are viewing these historic races. His selections underscore a season that has redefined excellence and competition at basketball's highest level, setting the stage for what promises to be one of the most contentious awards ceremonies in NBA history.
