About the Sixth Man Award
The NBA Sixth Man of the Year award has been given since 1982-83. It honors the league's best bench player -- someone who provides immediate offensive punch, defensive energy, or both when they enter the game off the bench.
The role of the sixth man has evolved significantly. In the modern NBA, many teams employ a "closing lineup" that includes their sixth man, meaning the best bench players often log starter-level minutes while maintaining their reserve designation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has won the most Sixth Man awards?
Jamal Crawford and Lou Williams are tied with 3 awards each. Both are known for their elite shot-making ability off the bench.
Has a Sixth Man winner ever become an MVP?
James Harden won 6MOY in 2012 with OKC and later became an MVP (2018) after being traded to Houston. He's the most prominent example of a bench player becoming a superstar.
What makes a great sixth man?
The best sixth men provide instant offense, change the pace of the game, and maintain or extend leads when starters rest. They need to be efficient scorers who can create their own shot against opposing bench units.