The Ringer’s New Power Rankings Cause a Stir: Jokić Surpasses Shai and Giannis in the Great Race

Nikola Jokić, the Serbian sensation and Denver Nuggets’ cornerstone, has once again claimed the throne as the NBA’s top player, according to The Ringer’s latest power rankings. Surpassing the likes of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Giannis Antetokounmpo, Jokić’s placement at number one sent shockwaves throughout the basketball world, especially with the 2025 NBA Finals heating up.

The question on everyone’s mind: Is Jokić really the best in the league right now? According to the numbers, accolades, and his impact on the court — the answer might be a resounding yes. But fans of rising superstar Shai and two-time MVP Giannis aren’t all in agreement.

The Ringer’s Top 3: A Bold Statement in a Competitive Era

The Ringer, one of the most influential sports and culture media outlets, is known for bold takes and in-depth analysis. In their latest player ranking, they listed:

1. Nikola Jokić

2. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

3. Giannis Antetokounmpo

This ranking has ignited fierce debates on social media platforms like Twitter, Reddit, and Facebook. While some fans praised The Ringer’s clarity in recognizing Jokić’s quiet dominance, others felt Shai’s breakout Finals performance or Giannis’ two-way prowess deserved the top spot.

Why Nikola Jokić Still Reigns Supreme

Jokić’s dominance stems from more than just statistical brilliance — it’s his unique style of play that has redefined the center position. Averaging near triple-doubles every season while maintaining elite efficiency, he operates as the offensive engine of the Nuggets.

During the 2024–25 regular season, Jokić averaged:

• 25.4 points

• 11.9 rebounds

• 9.2 assists

• 58.6% FG

His court vision, touch around the rim, and ability to control the tempo make him arguably the most unguardable big man since Shaquille O’Neal — albeit with finesse instead of brute force.

Add to that his 2023 NBA title and Finals MVP, and you have a superstar who not only puts up numbers but wins at the highest level.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander: The Challenger with Finals Fire

At number two is Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who has skyrocketed in the rankings thanks to his incredible postseason run with the Oklahoma City Thunder. In Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals, Shai dropped 38 points, the third-highest total in a Finals debut in NBA history, trailing only Allen Iverson (48) and George Mikan (42).

His season has been nothing short of MVP caliber:

• 31.5 PPG

• 6.8 APG

• 5.3 RPG

• 1.9 SPG

Beyond stats, Shai has displayed poise, leadership, and a killer midrange game that has drawn comparisons to Kobe Bryant. Many believe that if he can lead the Thunder to a title this year, he could overtake Jokić by next season.

Giannis Antetokounmpo: Still the Most Fearsome Force?

Coming in third, Giannis Antetokounmpo continues to be one of the league’s most dominant two-way players. Despite the Bucks’ earlier-than-expected exit from the playoffs, Giannis had another statistically monstrous season:

• 29.7 PPG

• 11.2 RPG

• 5.8 APG

• 60% FG

His blend of athleticism, defensive impact, and relentless attacking makes him a nightmare for any opponent. But with the Bucks struggling to find rhythm under a new coaching staff and injuries to key players, his position in the rankings has slipped — at least temporarily.

Why The Rankings Sparked Controversy

Many NBA fans and analysts were quick to react to The Ringer’s list. The criticism wasn’t so much about Jokić being first — but about Shai leapfrogging Giannis, Luka Dončić, Stephen Curry, and others who have historically been in the top 3.

Some of the main points of contention include:

• “One Finals game doesn’t equal GOAT status” – fans skeptical of Shai’s surge

• “Giannis carried a broken roster” – many believe he’s being penalized for team flaws

• “Jokić doesn’t play flashy, but he wins” – supporters backing the #1 pick

The debate showcases the subjectivity of ranking greatness, especially in an era where individual brilliance meets team dependency.

The Evolution of Power Rankings in the Social Media Era

In today’s digital-first NBA culture, rankings like The Ringer’s don’t just inform fans — they spark massive online discourse. Within hours, hashtags like #JokicNo1, #ShaiForMVP, and #GiannisDeservesBetter were trending.

Power rankings now have more cultural weight than ever, influencing everything from award narratives to endorsement visibility and even All-NBA debates.

The fact that Jokić, a low-key European superstar, leads this list says a lot about how the league — and its fans — have evolved. Quiet dominance is no longer overlooked.

How Do Other Stars React to The Rankings?

While no players have commented directly on The Ringer’s ranking, subtle social media activity hints at awareness. Shai posted a cryptic IG story that read:

“Respect is earned, not given.”

Meanwhile, Giannis reposted a throwback of his 2021 title win, possibly a reminder of his still-burning legacy.

The rankings may be unofficial, but they clearly fuel competitive fire, especially among top-tier players seeking validation.

Jokić’s Place in NBA History: Quietly Climbing the Ladder

Nikola Jokić’s consistent excellence is slowly pushing him into all-time great territory. With multiple MVPs, a Finals MVP, and now the consensus #1 spot among analysts, his resume is growing fast.

Statistically, he’s already passed legends like Larry Bird and Kevin Garnett in key advanced metrics. The only thing missing? Longevity and more rings.

If he can capture another title — perhaps in 2025 — the conversation around Jokić as a top-10 all-time player could become very real.

What Comes Next for the Top 3?

As the 2025 NBA Finals continue, all eyes are on Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Can he carry the Thunder to their first title since 1979? If so, he might very well snatch the crown from Jokić in the next rankings.

Meanwhile, Giannis will enter the offseason with fire, determined to return Milwaukee to championship form. And Jokić, already cemented as a superstar, will be watching — or possibly preparing for another deep playoff run if Denver returns strong next year.

Conclusion: The Debate Isn’t Over — It’s Just Getting Started

The Ringer’s latest Top 3 NBA players ranking has done more than just stir the pot — it’s reignited the debate about greatness, dominance, and legacy in the modern NBA.

With Nikola Jokić at the top, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander on the rise, and Giannis Antetokounmpo still a monster on both ends, the race for the throne is far from over. And that’s what makes the NBA — and conversations like these — endlessly thrilling.