10 Best NBA Most Improved Player Awardees

The NBA Most Improved Player award highlights breakout stars who exceeded all expectations. These players often shift NBA odds overnight with their performance. Bettors frequently watch these names for reliable NBA player prop bets. Each winner made a major leap in skill, stats, and impact. Their improvements helped teams win and fans believe in their potential. 

These ten players turned potential into production and changed how people view NBA player prop bets. Their rise affected game outcomes and influenced NBA odds across seasons. Let’s look at the ten best NBA Most Improved Player awardees of all time.

10. Gilbert Arenas (2002-03) – From Warriors Bench Player to Washington’s Primary Scorer

MIP Stats: 18.3 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.3 APG; 43.1 FG%, 34.8 FG3%, 79.1 FT%
Career Stats: 20.7 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.3 APG; 42.1 FG%, 35.1 FG3%, 80.3 FT%

Gilbert Arenas is one of the best NBA Most Improved Player awardees due to his incredible rise in performance. He won the award in the 2002–03 season with the Golden State Warriors. That year, he jumped from 10.9 to 18.3 points per game. Arenas also improved in assists, rebounds, and overall leadership on the court.

He showed unmatched confidence and a fearless attitude in every game. His ability to hit clutch shots quickly made him a fan favorite. After winning the award, Arenas signed with the Washington Wizards and became a three-time NBA All-Star. He averaged over 29 points per game in the 2005–06 season.

His scoring bursts and deep shooting range made him dangerous every night. Fans and analysts included him in top NBA picks during his prime years. He regularly outperformed expectations and delivered highlight-reel performances.

Arenas proved that a second-round pick could become a franchise star. He inspired many young players to believe in their potential. His MIP journey shows how dedication and hard work lead to greatness. Gilbert Arenas remains one of the most exciting and impactful MIP winners in league history.

9. Kevin Love (2010-11) – Monstrous Double-Double Season

MIP Stats: 15.2 PPG, 15.2 RPG, 3.2 APG; 47.0 FG%, 41.7 FG3%, 85.0 FT%
Career Stats: 16.2 PPG, 10.0 RPG, 2.3 APG; 43.8 FG%, 36.9 FG3%, 82.8 FT%
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Kevin Love lands ninth on this list because of his remarkable consistency and leap in performance for the Timberwolves. He won the award during the 2010–11 season with the Minnesota Timberwolves. That year, Love increased his scoring average from 14 to 20.2 points per game. He also led the league with 15.2 rebounds per game.

Love became the first player since Moses Malone to average at least 20 points and 15 rebounds in a season. His improved three-point shooting added another weapon to his offensive game. He transformed from a solid player into a dominant All-Star forward. Love’s improved conditioning and work ethic clearly impacted his on-court success.

His breakout season made him a regular focus in scouting reports and defensive schemes. He became the centerpiece of Minnesota’s offense and rebounding. Analysts and fans praised his development and elite rebounding instincts.

Kevin Love’s improvement also boosted his reputation around the league. He went on to become an NBA champion with the Cleveland Cavaliers. His journey from a role player to a star shows the impact of dedication and skill. Love’s 2010–11 campaign remains one of the most impressive NBA Most Improved Player seasons in recent history.

8. Paul George (2012-13) – George’s Emergence as a Go-To Player

MIP Stats: 17.4 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 4.1 APG; 43.0 FG%, 32.7 FG3%, 72.7 FT%
Career Stats: 20.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 3.7 APG; 44.0 FG%, 38.3 FG3%, 85.3 FT%
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Paul George is one of the best NBA Most Improved Player awardees because of his breakout 2012–13 season. That year, he stepped up after Danny Granger’s injury. George raised his scoring average from 12.1 to 17.4 points per game. He also improved in rebounds, assists, and defense.

George became the primary option for the Indiana Pacers and led them to the Eastern Conference Finals. He earned his first All-Star selection during the same season. His strong two-way play gained respect from coaches and players across the league. George guarded top scorers while producing on offense each night.

His improvement helped the Pacers become a true title contender in the East. Fans and analysts praised his athleticism and leadership. George’s rise made him one of the most exciting young stars in the NBA.

Winning the Most Improved Player award validated his hard work and dedication. He transformed from a role player to a franchise cornerstone. His continued growth led to multiple All-Star appearances and All-NBA honors.

Paul George’s 2012–13 season proved that opportunity and preparation create success. His development inspired many rising stars in the league. He remains a perfect example of what the Most Improved Player award represents.

7. Brandon Ingram (2019–20) – Ingram’s Ascension as an Offensive Threat

MIP Stats: 23.8 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 4.2 APG; 46.3 FG%, 39.1 FG3%, 85.1 FT%
Career Stats: 19.5 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.3 APG; 46.8 FG%, 36.3 FG3%, 78.8 FT%
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Brandon Ingram is one of the best NBA Most Improved Player awardees because of his breakout 2019–20 season. He joined the New Orleans Pelicans and immediately became their offensive leader. Ingram increased his scoring average from 18.3 to 23.8 points per game. He also posted career highs in rebounds, assists, and shooting percentages.

Ingram earned his first All-Star selection during that same season. His improved play gave the Pelicans a strong foundation for the future. He became a consistent scoring threat and improved his three-point shooting dramatically. His growth changed how opponents prepared for games and shifted NBA betting lines.

Ingram’s development made him a go-to option in late-game situations. He confidently created shots and made tough plays under pressure. Bettors began watching him closely due to his impact on NBA betting lines.

His poise and leadership helped guide a young Pelicans roster. Ingram’s transformation showed how a change in environment can unlock potential. His work ethic and focus earned respect throughout the league.

Winning the Most Improved Player award confirmed his star-level talent. Brandon Ingram’s journey remains a strong example of growth and determination. His 2019–20 season solidified his status as one of the award’s best recipients.

6. Pascal Siakam (2018–19) – Pivotal Player for The Raptors’ Title

MIP Stats: 16.9 PPG, 6.9 RPG, 3.1 APG; 47.0 FG%, 27.9 FG3%, 75.9 FT%
Career Stats: 18.0 PPG, 6.7 RPG, 3.6 APG; 49.9 FG%, 33.9 FG3%, 76.3 FT%
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Pascal Siakam is one of the best NBA Most Improved Player awardees due to his breakout 2018–19 season. That year, he became a key piece for the Toronto Raptors. Siakam increased his scoring average from 7.3 to 16.9 points per game. He also improved in rebounds, assists, and defensive versatility.

Siakam’s energy and athleticism brought life to both ends of the floor. He evolved from a role player into a reliable starter. His improved shooting, especially from three-point range, expanded the Raptors’ offense. Siakam thrived in transition and attacked mismatches with confidence.

His rise helped Toronto secure a strong playoff position. During the postseason, he played a crucial role in the Raptors’ championship run. He scored 32 points in Game 1 of the NBA Finals against Golden State. That performance set the tone for the series.

Siakam’s hard work and improvement earned him the 2018–19 Most Improved Player award. He became the first G-League alum to win the honor. His journey from a late first-round pick to NBA champion inspired many.

Pascal Siakam proved that dedication and development lead to success. His growth was essential to Toronto’s historic season. He remains a shining example of what the award truly represents.

5. Julius Randle (2020-21) – Banner Season Under the New York Knicks

MIP Stats: 24.1 PPG, 10.2 RPG, 6.0 APG; 45.6 FG%, 41.1 FG3%, 81.1 FT%
Career Stats: 19.0 PPG, 9.1 RPG, 3.8 APG; 47.1 FG%, 33.4 FG3%, 75.3 FT%
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Julius Randle earned the NBA Most Improved Player award through hard work, resilience, and undeniable performance growth. He transformed from a solid contributor into the clear leader of the New York Knicks during the 2020-2021 season.

Randle drastically improved his scoring, averaging a career-high 24.1 points per game. His shooting percentages increased across the board, especially from three-point range, where he became a serious threat.

Randle also improved as a playmaker, averaging over six assists per game—doubling his previous career-best. He took on more responsibility and elevated his teammates with his energy and unselfish style.

Defensively, he showed greater commitment, becoming a reliable force on both ends of the court. Randle’s improved conditioning and focus helped him play heavy minutes without sacrificing effort or production.

His leadership helped guide the Knicks to their first playoff berth in eight years. Fans and analysts praised his growth as both a player and a team cornerstone. Randle’s dedication, improvement, and impact made him a deserving winner of the Most Improved Player award. 

He didn’t just improve his stats—he changed the direction of a franchise. That transformation speaks volumes about his work ethic and determination.

4. Tracy McGrady (2000-01) – Making Magic in Orlando

MIP Stats: 26.8 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 4.6 APG; 45.7 FG%, 35.5 FG3%, 73.3 FT%
Career Stats: 19.6 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 4.4 APG; 43.5 FG%, 33.8 FG3%, 74.6 FT%

Tracy McGrady earned the NBA Most Improved Player award by turning raw talent into elite, game-changing production. In his fourth season, McGrady jumped from role player to All-Star, averaging 26.8 points per game with the Orlando Magic.

He showed massive improvement in every area—scoring, rebounding, passing, and defense—all while embracing a new leadership role.

McGrady became the focal point of the offense, thriving under pressure and creating opportunities for teammates.His athleticism and skill set made him nearly impossible to guard. He added range to his jumper and became deadly off the dribble.

McGrady’s improved shot selection and confidence boosted his efficiency and effectiveness. He also rebounded better, pulling down over seven boards per game. Defensively, McGrady stepped up by guarding multiple positions and disrupting passing lanes.

He played with poise, maturity, and a hunger to prove he could lead a team. Moreover, his breakout season earned him his first All-Star selection and league-wide respect.

McGrady’s leap from promising young talent to superstar was undeniable and electrifying. His rise reflected relentless work and an elite basketball mind. That transformation made him a perfect Most Improved Player awardee. He didn’t just improve—he ascended to greatness.

3. Ja Morant (2021–22) – Marking His Territory In Memphis

MIP Stats: 27.4 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 6.7 APG; 49.3 FG%, 34.4 FG3%, 76.1 FT%
Career Stats: 22.6 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 7.4 APG; 46.9 FG%, 31.6 FG3%, 76.6 FT%
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Ja Morant earned the NBA Most Improved Player award by making a superstar leap in just his third season. He raised his scoring average from 19.1 to 27.4 points per game, showing clear and consistent offensive growth.

Morant improved his shooting efficiency, especially from three-point range, making him more dangerous and versatile.He attacked the rim with fearless explosiveness, finishing through contact and over defenders with ease.

Morant also became a better playmaker, keeping defenses guessing with creative passing and smart decisions.He embraced the spotlight, leading the Memphis Grizzlies to one of the league’s best records.

Morant’s improved leadership and confidence transformed the team’s identity and energy. He played with relentless pace, pushing the tempo and forcing opponents to adapt. Moreover, his defensive effort also improved, showing commitment on both ends of the court.

Morant’s highlight-reel plays captured attention, but his maturity made the biggest difference. He lifted his team and took responsibility in big moments.

His leap wasn’t just statistical—it was emotional and cultural. Morant became the face of a rising franchise through hard work and belief. He didn’t just improve—he elevated everyone around him. That made him a perfect and deserving Most Improved Player awardee.

2. Jimmy Butler (2014–15) – Hard Work Paid off For Jimmy Buckets

MIP Stats: 20.0 PPG, 5.8 RPG, 3.3 APG; 46.2 FG%, 37.8 FG3%, 83.4FT%
Career Stats: 18.3 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 4.3 APG; 47.2 FG%, 32.8 FG3%, 84.3 FT%
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Jimmy Butler earned the NBA Most Improved Player award by transforming from a defensive role player into a rising two-way star. He increased his scoring from 13.1 to 20.0 points per game during the 2014-15 season. His offensive jump was stark, while keeping elite defensive intensity during games.

Butler refined his offensive skills, adding a reliable mid-range jumper and stronger finishing around the rim. He improved his ball-handling and became more confident creating his own shot.

Moreover, Butler’s work ethic and toughness stood out every night. He took pride in guarding the opponent’s best player and never backed down from challenges. His energy, hustle, and leadership sparked the Chicago Bulls’ competitive edge.

Butler also improved his free-throw shooting, making him more effective in late-game situations. He showed clear growth as a playmaker, keeping the offense flowing and teammates involved. His effort and mentality reflected his journey from a late first-round pick to a key starter.

Butler didn’t rely on hype—he relied on grit, discipline, and daily improvement. Coaches trusted him with more responsibility, and he delivered consistently. His leap was about more than numbers—it was about identity and impact.

Jimmy Butler proved that relentless work pays off. That made him a deserving and memorable Most Improved Player awardee.

1. Giannis Antetokounmpo (2016–17) – From Unknown to Undeniable

MIP Stats: 22.9 PPG, 8.8 RPG, 5.4 APG; 52.1 FG%, 27.2 FG3%, 77.0 FT%
Career Stats: 23.9 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 5.0 APG; 55.1 FG%, 28.4 FG3%, 69.3 FT%
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Giannis Antetokounmpo lands atop the NBA Most Improved Player awardee list by turning raw potential into dominant all-around performance. He improved his scoring from 16.9 to 22.9 points per game, becoming a primary offensive weapon for Milwaukee.

Giannis added strength and skill, making him more effective driving to the basket and finishing through contact. His ball-handling and court vision improved, allowing him to initiate offense and create for teammates.

Additionally, he became a true point forward, controlling the pace and flow of the game. Giannis also improved his rebounding, pulling down nearly nine boards per game with effort and physicality.

Defensively, he became a force—blocking shots, switching screens, and guarding multiple positions. His intensity and motor never stopped, making him a nightmare in transition.

Giannis worked tirelessly on his jump shot and expanded his offensive range. His mindset shifted from role player to team leader. This made coaches trust him with more responsibility, and he delivered on both ends of the court.

His breakout season reflected incredible growth, discipline, and belief in his potential. Giannis didn’t just improve—he evolved into a superstar; eventually, he won 2 MVPs, and 1 DPOY.

That transformation defined why he was a perfect Most Improved Player awardee. He turned hard work into greatness and led by example.