A Prestigious Honor

The NBA's Defensive Player of the Year Award: A History of Excellence

A Prestigious Honor

The NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award is one of the most coveted accolades in basketball. Given annually since the 1982-83 season, it recognizes the league's top defender, who demonstrates exceptional ability in guarding opponents and protecting the basket.

A Look at the Award's History

Over the years, some of the NBA's greatest defensive players have won the award, including Hakeem Olajuwon, Dennis Rodman, and Ben Wallace. Each winner has showcased a unique combination of skills, from shot-blocking and rebounding to quick lateral movement and intelligent positioning.

In 2022, Boston Celtics guard Marcus Smart became the first guard to win the award since Gary Payton in 1996. Smart's exceptional defensive play was crucial to Boston's success during the 2021-22 season.

Stay Tuned for More News

As the NBA playoffs approach, all eyes will be on the remaining contenders for the 2023-24 Kia Defensive Player of the Year Award. With a host of talented defenders still in the running, the race promises to be an exciting one.

Follow the latest updates and analysis on the NBA's Defensive Player of the Year Award on the official website of the National Basketball Association (NBA.com) and stay tuned for more news and announcements.