The DPOY Award: Honoring Elite Defense
First awarded in 1983, the DPOY recognizes the NBA's best defender. Centers and power forwards dominate the award history — rim protection has traditionally been valued most highly. However, guards like Gary Payton (1996) and Marcus Smart (2022) have broken through.
Dikembe Mutombo and Ben Wallace each won 4 DPOYs, the most in NBA history. Rudy Gobert has also won 4, making him the only active player to match that record. Dwight Howard won 3 consecutive from 2009-2011.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has the most DPOY awards?
Dikembe Mutombo, Ben Wallace, and Rudy Gobert are tied with 4 DPOY awards each.
Can a guard win DPOY?
Yes, though it's rare. Gary Payton (1996) and Marcus Smart (2022) are the only guards to win. The award traditionally favors rim protectors and interior defenders.
Has anyone won MVP and DPOY in the same season?
Hakeem Olajuwon (1994) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (2020) are the only players to win both in the same season, highlighting their complete two-way dominance.