Nickeil Alexander-Walker has been named the NBA's Most Improved Player for the 2025-26 season after a breakout campaign with the Atlanta Hawks.

The shooting guard posted career-high statistics during his first season with Atlanta after signing with the team as a free agent. Alexander-Walker earned the starting role in the Hawks' backcourt and delivered consistently strong performances throughout the season.

The award recognizes Alexander-Walker's significant statistical improvement and increased impact compared to previous seasons. His development into a reliable starting player helped solidify the Hawks' backcourt rotation.

Other players were also recognized in the voting process, including Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren, who received acknowledgment from NBA awards voters on Friday, April 24, following his own strong season.

The Most Improved Player award is voted on by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters who cover the NBA. The honor caps what has been a career-defining season for Alexander-Walker in his new role with the Hawks organization.