Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs’ budding star, made NBA history by becoming the first rookie to make the league’s All-Defensive First Team. The announcement came on Tuesday, as the league revealed its defensive team selections, with Wembanyama receiving an amazing 98 out of 99 votes.

Rudy Gobert of the Minnesota Timberwolves led the All-Defensive first team and was unanimously selected as the Defensive Player of the Year. Gobert was joined on the coveted first team by Wembanyama, Bam Adebayo of the Miami Heat, Herb Jones of the New Orleans Pelicans, and Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Wembanyama’s participation on the first team underlines his great defensive ability, which he demonstrated throughout his rookie season in the NBA. Standing 7 feet 3 inches tall and possessing a wide skill set, Wembanyama has not only wowed with his offensive ability but has also had a huge impact on the defensive end of the court.

Commenting on Wembanyama’s accomplishment, Bam Adebayo lauded the rookie’s defensive contributions, emphasising that Wembanyama’s defensive abilities deserve equal respect as his attacking abilities. Adebayo emphasised the importance of Wembanyama’s first-team selection in his debut season, describing it as a wonderful achievement for the promising young player.

The All-Defensive Second Team included notable players such as Alex Caruso of the Chicago Bulls, Jalen Suggs of the Orlando Magic, Jaden McDaniels of the Minnesota Timberwolves, and Derrick White and Jrue Holiday of the Boston Celtics.

Rudy Gobert earns his seventh All-Defense selection, all of which have come as a member of the first team. Anthony Davis won his fifth All-Defense honour, while Bam Adebayo received his fifth selection but his first as a first-team player. Herb Jones, making his debut on the All-Defensive team, adds another feather to his cap with this honour.

Wembanyama’s accomplishment puts him in elite company, joining the ranks of NBA superstars who made an impact on defence early in their careers. He becomes the sixth rookie in NBA history to make the All-Defensive Team, with the previous five garnering second-team honours.

As the basketball world celebrates Wembanyama’s historic achievement, all eyes are now on the imminent release of the All-NBA roster. If Wembanyama makes that coveted roster, he will establish his standing as one of the NBA’s brightest prospects, following in the footsteps of renowned rookies such as Tim Duncan.