Victor Wembanyama has been breaking records in his first NBA season, and his latest achievement is truly unique.
First Rookie to Make All-Defensive First Team
On Tuesday, it was announced that Victor Wembanyama became the first rookie ever to be named to the NBA’s All-Defensive First Team. He appeared on 98 out of 99 ballots. Joining him were Rudy Gobert, Bam Adebayo, Herb Jones, and Anthony Davis.
Bam Adebayo shared his thoughts about Victor’s performance: “Coming into this league, obviously he had high expectations because he’s 7-3 and shooting step-back 3s. I think a lot of people paid attention more to that than what he actually did on the defensive end.”
San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama is the first rookie to be selected to the Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team. The NBA has named an All-Defensive Team (First Team and Second Team) annually since the 1968-69 season.
Wembanyama is the sixth rookie to earn a spot on the Kia NBA…
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR)
Adebayo continued praising Victor: “So, for him to get first-team, first come around, it’s obviously a great accolade for him.” This was also Bam’s debut on the first team after making five All-Defensive squads.
I think it’s amazing how quickly Victor has made an impact.
Victor is now one of only six rookies ever to make an All-Defensive Team. However, he’s the only one who made the first team while others settled for second-team honors in their rookie years.
Upcoming All-NBA Team Announcement
The league will announce its All-NBA team today. If Victor makes it, he will be the first rookie since Tim Duncan in 1998 to earn this honor.
Rudy Gobert’s Historic Achievement
Rudy Gobert has solidified his place among NBA legends by winning his fourth Defensive Player of the Year award as Minnesota prepares for their Western Conference semifinals against Denver. He now shares this record with Ben Wallace and Dikembe Mutombo.
“It’s a blessing and an honor to join this small group,” Rudy said upon receiving the award. “These two guys are legends. Every story is unique. I will keep writing mine and try to be the best version of myself every day and enjoy every step of the way.”
Earlier this year when asked about Rudy potentially winning DPOY again, Victor cheekily responded with: “Let him win it now because after that, it’s no longer his turn.”
