Matthew Dellavedova Wins NBL Finals MVP - Then Delivers A Class Act That Redefined Sportsmanship

The stunned Hawks bench erupted in cheers, the crowd followed suit, and just like that, the moment became an instant classic in Australian basketball lore.

Even Hickey, visibly emotional, tried to give the trophy back. But the gesture had already spoken volumes.

The controversy stemmed from the NBL’s MVP voting process, which awards points game-by-game in a 3-2-1 format across the series. Dellavedova, who had more consistently high-impact performances throughout, tallied the most total votes. 

Hickey, while sensational in the final two games, likely lost out due to Illawarra’s more balanced scoring in the earlier matchups — with Trey Kell and Tyler Harvey also having their moments.

Still, stats alone couldn’t measure the gravity of Hickey’s contributions when the title was on the line. His Game 5 performance, in particular, embodied everything fans expect from an MVP — resilience, leadership, and game-changing energy.

Dellavedova’s gesture will be remembered for more than just its humility. It was a lesson in perspective. For a man who has won at the highest level — capturing an NBA title with LeBron James and the Cavaliers in 2016 — Delly reminded everyone that greatness isn't always defined by accolades, but by the respect you earn from your peers.

As Illawarra celebrated their title and Hickey hoisted the trophy Delly gave him, fans across the world stood witness to a rare sports moment that transcended rivalry. One that, in many ways, showed that in losing, Matthew Dellavedova may have just won something far greater.