When the game is on the line and the pressure reaches its boiling point, only a select few superstars have the ice in their veins to deliver. Following his announcement as the winner on April 21, 2026, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has officially been named the NBA Clutch Player of the Year. This prestigious honor, represented by the Jerry West Trophy, recognizes the player who consistently performs at the highest level during the most critical moments of the season.
Defining the NBA Clutch Player of the Year Award
The NBA Clutch Player of the Year award was introduced in the 2022-23 season to honor the league's most effective late-game performer. To keep the selection process objective, the NBA defines "clutch time" as the final five minutes of the fourth quarter or overtime when the score is within five points. While the winner is selected by a panel of media members, the voting is heavily informed by specific clutch metrics, including total points, field goal percentage, and team record in close-game situations.
Named after the legendary "Mr. Clutch" himself, Jerry West, the trophy serves as a bridge between the high-pressure icons of the past and the modern stars who carry their teams across the finish line today. Since its inception, the award has quickly become one of the most anticipated announcements of the NBA postseason.
A Legacy of Late-Game Excellence: All-Time Winners
The list of Jerry West Trophy winners is a verified "who's who" of modern basketball brilliance. Each recipient has demonstrated an uncanny ability to take over games when every possession carries the weight of the season.
2025-26 Winner: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (Oklahoma City Thunder)
The most recent recipient, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, secured the 2025-26 honor after a historic season of late-game efficiency. Announced just yesterday, SGA’s win comes on the back of leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to the best record in the Western Conference in games decided by five points or less. Known for his methodical pace and unstoppable drives to the rim, Gilgeous-Alexander led the league in clutch scoring average this season, shooting over 54% in high-leverage situations. His ability to draw fouls and remain perfect from the charity stripe in the final minute made him the definitive choice for the 2025-26 campaign.
2024-25 Winner: Jalen Brunson (New York Knicks)
Before SGA took the throne, the 2024-25 NBA Clutch Player of the Year was Jalen Brunson. The New York Knicks guard became a folk hero in Manhattan by repeatedly carrying the team through grueling fourth quarters. Brunson’s 2024-25 season was defined by his footwork and mid-range mastery. He led the NBA in total clutch points during that season, often taking—and making—the final shot to secure pivotal wins at Madison Square Garden. His win solidified his status as one of the premier floor generals in the association.
2023-24 Winner: Stephen Curry (Golden State Warriors)
In the second year of the award's existence, Stephen Curry added the Jerry West Trophy to his crowded mantle. Despite a season of transition for the Golden State Warriors, Curry remained the league's most feared perimeter threat. During the 2023-24 season, he led the NBA in clutch three-pointers made, often pulling up from well beyond the arc to silence opposing crowds. His efficiency in the final minutes—shooting nearly 50% from the field in clutch situations—reminded the world that his gravity on the court only intensifies as the clock winds down.
2022-23 Winner: De'Aaron Fox (Sacramento Kings)
The inaugural NBA Clutch Player of the Year was De'Aaron Fox. During the 2022-23 season, Fox spearheaded the "Light the Beam" era in Sacramento, leading the league with 194 clutch points. His blistering speed and improved jump shot made him impossible to guard in isolation during the fourth quarter. Fox received 91 of the 100 first-place votes, setting a incredibly high standard for all future winners of the Jerry West Trophy.
The Statistics Behind the Clutch
What makes a winner of this award? It isn't just about the "eye test"; it’s about cold, hard efficiency. The NBA tracks several key categories to help voters determine the most impactful closer:
- Clutch Usage Rate: How often a player finishes a possession for their team in the final five minutes.
- True Shooting Percentage (TS%): Measuring scoring efficiency by accounting for two-pointers, threes, and free throws.
- Plus/Minus in Clutch Minutes: The net impact a player has on the scoreboard during tight moments.
- Assist-to-Turnover Ratio: Maintaining poise and ball security when defenses are at their most aggressive.
As the game continues to evolve, the NBA Clutch Player of the Year award will continue to highlight the players who possess the mental fortitude to thrive where others falter. With stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Brunson now among the ranks of Jerry West Trophy winners, the prestige of being the league's ultimate closer has never been higher.
Sources & Original Reporting
