The NBA has unveiled its 2024-25 All-Defensive Teams, with Cleveland Cavaliers‘ forward Evan Mobley leading the First Team selections. Mobley’s exceptional defensive performance throughout the season earned him the Defensive Player of the Year award and a near-unanimous First Team selection. Joining him are standout defenders who have made significant impacts on their respective teams.
Evan Mobley Headlines 2024-25 NBA All-Defensive Teams
First Team All-Defense: Rising Stars and Seasoned Veterans
Mobley anchored the Cavaliers’ defense, averaging 1.6 blocks and 0.9 steals per game. His shot-blocking prowess and ability to contest shots were pivotal in Cleveland’s defensive success.
The 2024-25 Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team:
Dyson Daniels of @ATLHawks
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) May 22, 2025
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Atlanta Hawks‘ guard Dyson Daniels emerged as a premier perimeter defender, leading the league with 3.0 steals per game and adding 0.7 blocks per game. His defensive instincts and ability to disrupt passing lanes were instrumental in elevating an otherwise mediocre Hawks’ defense. His steals per game is the 12th most all-time.
Oklahoma City Thunder’s Luguentz Dort earned his first All-Defensive Team nod, contributing 1.1 steals and 0.5 blocks per game. His tenacity and on-ball defense provided a significant boost to the Thunder’s perimeter defense.
Veteran Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors secured his fifth First Team All-Defense selection, averaging 1.5 steals and 1.0 block per game. His leadership and versatility were key components of the Warriors’ defensive schemes.
Houston Rockets’ Amen Thompson, in just his second NBA season, showcased remarkable defensive versatility, averaging 1.4 steals and 1.3 blocks per game. His ability to guard multiple positions contributed significantly to the Rockets’ defensive improvements.
Second Team All-Defense: Defensive Stalwarts
Ivica Zubac of the Los Angeles Clippers led the Second Team selections, providing a strong interior presence. Portland Trail Blazers‘ forward Toumani Camara made his debut on the All-Defensive Team, recognized for his defensive contributions.
Thunder’s Jalen Williams added to the team’s defensive accolades with his selection. Minnesota Timberwolves‘ center Rudy Gobert, a perennial defensive force, continued his streak of All-Defensive honors. Memphis Grizzlies‘ Jaren Jackson Jr. rounded out the Second Team, maintaining his reputation as a top-tier defender.
Breakdown of the 2024-25 NBA All-Defensive Teams Votes
Mobley led all vote-getters with 199 points, securing 99 first-place votes and just one second-place vote. Daniels followed closely with 191 points, while Oklahoma City’s Dort and Golden State’s Green also earned first-team honors. Houston’s Thompson rounded out the first team with 171 points. Notably, Gobert’s inclusion with just three first-place votes highlights his enduring defensive reputation.
A global media panel of 100 voters selected the 2024-25 Kia NBA All-Defensive Team.
Voters selected five players for the First Team and five players for the Second Team at any position.
Complete voting results
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— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) May 22, 2025
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The Last Word
The 2024-25 All-Defensive Teams highlight the league’s commitment to recognizing defensive excellence. Mobley’s leadership and the emergence of young talents like Daniels and Thompson signify a promising future for NBA defense. As these players continue to develop, fans can anticipate even more impressive defensive performances in the seasons to come.
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