The NBA has unveiled its 2024–25 All-Defensive Teams, spotlighting the league’s premier defenders who have set the standard for excellence on the court.
All-Defensive First Team:
- Evan Mobley (Cavaliers): As the Defensive Player of the Year, Mobley anchored Cleveland’s defense, averaging 1.6 blocks and 0.9 steals per game, and holding opponents to 44.5% shooting.
- Draymond Green (Warriors): At 35, Green earned his fifth First Team selection, contributing to the Warriors’ seventh-ranked defense with his versatility and leadership.
- Dyson Daniels (Hawks): Leading the league with 3.0 steals per game and 443 deflections, Daniels became the youngest player to record 200+ steals in a season since Magic Johnson.
- Lu Dort (Thunder): Known for his relentless on-ball defense, Dort held opponents to 41.9% shooting when he was the primary defender.
- Amen Thompson (Rockets): In his second season, Thompson averaged 1.4 steals and 1.3 blocks per game, leading the league in defensive field goal percentage (.407) among qualifiers.
All-Defensive Second Team:
- Toumani Camara (Trail Blazers): Camara’s 2.0 steals per game were instrumental in Portland’s defensive resurgence.
- Rudy Gobert (Timberwolves): Earning his eighth All-Defensive selection, Gobert continued to be a dominant rim protector.
- Jaren Jackson Jr. (Grizzlies): Maintained his shot-blocking prowess, averaging over 2 blocks per game.
- Jalen Williams (Thunder): Williams’ versatility allowed him to guard multiple positions effectively, contributing to OKC’s defensive success.
- Ivica Zubac (Clippers): Provided a strong interior presence with solid rebounding and shot-blocking.
These selections highlight the players’ exceptional defensive skills and their crucial roles in their teams’ performances throughout the season.