News

NBA All-Defensive Team Highlighted By Rudy Gobert And Ben Simmons

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MAY 29: Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies goes to the basket against Rudy Gobert #27 of the Utah Jazz during the first half of Game Three of the Western Conference playoffs first round series on May 29, 2021 at FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

The NBA All-Defensive Team was announced Monday and includes Utah Jazz center, Rudy Gobert, who is also the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. Two Milwaukee Bucks were selected in guard Jrue Holiday and forward Giannis Antetokounmpo. The final two players included on the team were Philadelphia 76ers guard Ben Simmons, and Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green.

Miami Heat stars Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo were voted to the Second All-Defensive Team, joined by 76er teammates Joel Embiid and Matisse Thybulle. Former Finals MVP and star Clippers forward, Kawhi Leonard, also earned a spot in the Second All-Defensive Team.

Many of these honorees have earned this accolade in the past. Monday’s announcement marked Gobert’s fifth All-Defensive Team selection, Green’s sixth All-Defensive Team selection, with four first-team selections and two second-team selections. Leonard has appeared on the All-Defensive Team seven times.

Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter!

A week of sports news in your in-box.
We find the sports news you need to know, so you don't have to.

Green is the only player earning this honor who did not appear in the 2021 postseason. Four of the final eight teams remaining in the playoffs are represented within these honors: the 76ers, Clippers, Jazz and Bucks.

Gabriel Mangiafico