Victor Wembanyama Wins NBA Defensive Player Award, Youngest Ever at 22
Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs won the 2025-26 NBA Defensive Player of the Year award at age 22, making him the youngest winner ever. He's also the first player to win unanimously since the award started in 1983.
Victor Wembanyama made NBA history Monday night, becoming the youngest Defensive Player of the Year winner at just 22 years old. The San Antonio Spurs center also achieved something no other player has done in the award's 42-year history: winning every single vote.
A panel of 100 global media voters unanimously selected Wembanyama for the honor. The previous youngest winner was much older, showing just how rare it is for someone so young to dominate defensively at the NBA level.
Wembanyama's 7-foot-4 frame and incredible athleticism have made him a defensive nightmare for opposing teams. His ability to block shots, steal passes, and guard multiple positions has transformed the Spurs' defense this season.
The award caps off an incredible start to Wembanyama's NBA career. He was the top pick in the 2023 draft and has quickly become one of the league's most exciting young stars.
Wembanyama's historic win shows how quickly young stars can dominate in today's NBA. His defensive skills are changing how teams play offense and making the Spurs a must-watch team again after years of struggling.
Watch for Wembanyama to compete for more awards as the season continues, including potential MVP consideration.
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