Victor Wembanyama, the San Antonio Spurs' 7-foot-4 phenom, has been named the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season, achieving a historic first by winning the award unanimously. At just 22 years old, he is the youngest player ever to receive this honor.
Wembanyama earned all 100 first-place votes, a feat no player has accomplished before. He led the NBA in blocks with 197, marking his second consecutive year atop that category. He also recorded 66 steals and a 110.4 defensive rating, the second-best in the league.
His defensive presence was evident, also securing the second-most defensive rebounds in the NBA with 9.5 per game. Spurs teammate Keldon Johnson praised Wembanyama's work ethic and impact, calling him a special player who profoundly changes the game.
Wembanyama's dominance on defense has been a key factor in the Spurs' return to the NBA Playoffs. He is also a finalist for the league's MVP award.