Home Basketball LeBron James’ Lack of NBA Defensive Player of the Year Recognition Remains a Persistent Source of Frustration for the Basketball Icon

LeBron James’ Lack of NBA Defensive Player of the Year Recognition Remains a Persistent Source of Frustration for the Basketball Icon

Basketball — 04/17/2024

LeBron James Surpasses NBA Scoring Record, but Defensive Award Eludes Him

LeBron James has never been NBA DPOY — and it really bugs him - Los Angeles Times

In a historic milestone, LeBron James has cemented his name as the all-time leading scorer in NBA history, surpassing the records of legends before him. The four-time NBA champion and 20-time All-Star has not only dominated the court but has also been a force to reckon with offensively, earning him league MVP and Finals MVP honors four times each.

However, amidst the accolades and triumphs, there’s a lingering frustration for the Lakers superstar – the absence of a Defensive Player of the Year award in his collection. Expressing his discontent, James recently shared his sentiments in an episode of “The Shop: Uninterrupted,” airing on HBO.

“I mean, that’s the only award that I don’t have in my house. It kind of stings,” James remarked, drawing parallels to Beyoncé’s Grammy wins without an Album of the Year accolade.

LeBron James Opens Up About the One NBA Award He Hasn't Won

Reflecting on past seasons, James recalled instances where he narrowly missed out on the coveted defensive recognition. Notably, in 2013, despite an exceptional defensive performance, Marc Gasol clinched the award, leaving James as the runner-up.

“The guy who won Defensive Player of the Year didn’t even make first-team all-defense. How is that even possible?” questioned James, highlighting the discrepancy in the selection process.

Indeed, James’ frustration is warranted. In 2013, he secured a spot on the first-team all-defense, whereas Gasol only made it to the second team. This inconsistency stemmed from the voting system, where coaches determined the all-defensive teams, unlike the panel of sports writers and broadcasters who decided the Defensive Player of the Year.

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Gasol’s case isn’t unique, as previous players like Alvin Robertson, Dikembe Mutombo, and Tyson Chandler faced similar situations. Nonetheless, starting in 2014, the all-defensive team’s selection process underwent a significant change, ensuring fairness and transparency.

As James continues to etch his legacy in NBA history, his pursuit of excellence remains undeterred, fueled by his unyielding passion for the game and the desire to leave an indelible mark in every aspect of basketball.