Get ready to celebrate the league’s best defenders! The 2023-24 Kia NBA All-Defensive Teams have been revealed, showcasing the top protectors of the hardwood. It’s a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, representing the elite defensive talents across the league.
Rudy Gobert, the reigning Kia NBA Defensive Player of the Year, leads the way by being unanimously selected for the 2023-24 Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team! This marks the seventh time Gobert has earned this prestigious honor. His dominance in the paint and his ability to alter shots has consistently earned him respect from his peers and fans alike.
Joining Gobert on the First Team is a mix of familiar faces and fresh talent. Victor Wembanyama, the highly-touted rookie from the San Antonio Spurs, makes history as the first rookie to be selected to the Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team. Wembanyama’s remarkable size, athleticism, and defensive instincts have been on full display throughout his debut season.
Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat earns First Team honors for the first time after consistently being a Second Team member in the past four seasons. His ability to guard multiple positions and his relentless effort on the court have made him a formidable defender.
Herb Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans makes his Kia NBA All-Defensive Team debut. Jones’s lockdown defense and ability to disrupt opposing offenses have earned him well-deserved recognition.
Rounding out the First Team is Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers, who makes his third appearance on the First Team. His versatility and impactful defensive presence have always been a hallmark of his game.
Second Team Standouts: A Mix of Experience and Up-and-Comers
The 2023-24 Kia NBA All-Defensive Second Team is filled with talented players who have proven their defensive prowess.
Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls makes his second appearance on the All-Defensive Team. His scrappy defense and relentless hustle have made him a valuable asset to any team.
Jalen Suggs of the Orlando Magic, a rising star with a knack for stopping opponents, earns his first All-Defensive Team selection. His impressive defensive instincts and ability to make impactful plays on the defensive end have earned him recognition.
Derrick White of the Boston Celtics, another defensive stalwart, earns his second Kia NBA All-Defensive Team selection. His high-IQ defense and ability to guard multiple positions have made him a valuable defender for the Celtics.
Jrue Holiday of the Boston Celtics, a seasoned defender known for his lockdown abilities, makes his sixth All-Defensive Team appearance. Holiday’s experience, versatility, and tenacious defense have made him a consistent force on the defensive end.
Finally, Jaden McDaniels of the Minnesota Timberwolves earns his first All-Defensive Team honor. McDaniels’s long arms and athleticism have made him a tough matchup for opposing players, and his impressive defensive growth has been recognized.
The Defensive Elite: A Global Recognition
The Kia NBA All-Defensive Teams are chosen by a global panel of sportswriters and broadcasters. This panel casts votes for five players for the Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team and five players for the Kia NBA All-Defensive Second Team at any position. Players received two points for each First Team vote and one point for each Second Team vote.
These honors reflect the dedication and skill of the league’s best defenders. Congratulations to all the players who have earned their place on the 2023-24 Kia NBA All-Defensive Teams!
