Dyson Daniels, Lu Dort, Amen Thompson Named All-Defensive First Team

ATLANTA, GA — Dyson Daniels of the Atlanta Hawks, Luguentz Dort of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Amen Thompson of the Houston Rockets have been named to the 2024-25 Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team for the first time in their careers, the NBA announced on May 22, 2025. They join veteran players Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors and Evan Mobley of the Cleveland Cavaliers in this prestigious group.

Draymond Green has received his fifth First Team honor and ninth selection overall, while Mobley, who was also named the Defensive Player of the Year for the season, is recognized for the second time on the First Team, having achieved this accolade previously in 2022-23.

The selection of Daniels, Dort, and Thompson highlights the emergence of new talent within the league. Daniels led the Hawks with impressive defensive statistics, showing critical skills in his rookie campaign. Meanwhile, Dort was a key contributor to the Thunder’s defense, demonstrating consistent energy and tenacity on the court.

The 2024-25 Kia NBA All-Defensive First Team also features Mobley, who averaged 1.6 blocks and 0.9 steals per game, solidifying his role as a defensive anchor for the Cavaliers, and Green, whose experience and leadership have provided significant influence on the Warriors’ defensive strategies.

The All-Defensive Second Team includes first-time selections such as Toumani Camara of the Portland Trail Blazers, Jalen Williams of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Ivica Zubac of the LA Clippers. Additionally, veteran Rudy Gobert and Jaren Jackson Jr. made their mark on the list, with Gobert receiving his eighth All-Defensive Team honor.

A global media panel of 100 voters, which selected the teams, focused on standout performances throughout the season. Each First Team selection earned points based on the number of first-place and second-place votes they received. Mobley topped the voting with 199 points, followed closely by Daniels with 191 points.

The announcement of the All-Defensive teams comes as the NBA heads into the conference finals, marking an exciting time for discussions about player achievements in the league.