It wasn’t that long ago that Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo reigned supreme as the NBA Defensive Player of the Year. That’s why it was such a surprise that the eight-time All-Star was completely left out of this year’s NBA All-Defensive teams.
Well, technically Antetokounmpo still had plenty of votes for the team, but it’s demanding to deny that their numbers are indicative of how elite Giannis’ defensive efficiency went unnoticed last season.
Milwaukee Bucks news: Giannis Antetokounmpo rejected by entire defense team
Newly crowned Defensive Player of the Year Rudy Gobert and Rookie of the Year winner Victor Wembanyama will lead the NBA All-Defensive First Team for the 2023-24 season. Bam Adebayo, Anthony Davis and rookie Herb Jones join them on the elite list of the league’s best defenders.
While none of the five players mentioned above are a surprise, the fact that Giannis earned no more than 15 total votes has to be an unforeseen turn of events — at least for those who appreciate what the former next MVP brings to the table defensively.
Complete voting results for the 2023-24 Kia NBA Defensive Team: pic.twitter.com/k3FODNJ0YU
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) May 21, 2024
Not only did Giannis fail to make the All-Defense second team, but he was voted the 16th best defenseman in the league last season.
For what it’s worth, Brook Lopez received a total of eight votes, and in another surprising twist of fate, Bucks large man Bobby Portis received one second-place vote. Portis isn’t particularly known for his defense, so it’s a bit of a surprise to see him make the list.
Regardless of the situation, you can be sure Giannis will return with a vengeance next season. He will be on a mission to remind the basketball world that he is still one of the most dominant players in the NBA – on both ends of the court.
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