Last night the first ever NBA awards took place in New York City, with world famous rapper Drake as host. This event brought together some of the best players from around the league, all anxiously waiting to see if they were a winner in their respective categories. So if you were sleeping or just forgot about the newest edition to the NBA, the awards show, here is a recap of each award winner.
MVP: Russell Westbrook
This award was highly debated all season on whether or not it would go to James Harden (HOU), Kawhi Leonard (SAS), or Russell Westbrook (OKC). While all three had the stats to back up their campaign and were more than deserving, Russell came out on top winning in a landslide of the votes. This MVP performance is seen by many as a response to Kevin Durant leaving Oklahoma City to join the Golden State Warriors last off-season.
Rookie of the Year: Malcolm Brogdon
Brogdon (MIL) made history last night as he won the ROY award over Joel Embiid (PHI) and Dario Saric (PHI), becoming the first player to win ROY who was drafted outside of the first round. The four year college player showed a lot of poise, production, and great basketball IQ this past season and showed why he deserved the award.
Sixth Man of the Year: Eric Gordon
Eric Gordon (HOU) really shined this past season with the rockets. Backing up James Harden, arguably one of the best shooting guards in the game, is no easy task. However, excelling at coming off the bench and making a big impact is even harder. Gordon did both of those this past season allowing him to win sixth man of the year over Andre Iguodala (GSW) and Lou Williams (LAL/HOU).
Coach of the Year: Mike D’Antoni
D’Antoni (HOU) won this award over Gregg Popovich (SAS) and Eric Spoelstra (MIA). D’Antoni took a Rockets team that finished 41-41 (8th) in the 2015-2016 season and turned it into a team that finished 55-27 and was the 3rd seed in the West. This rapid change was sparked by the genius move to transition Harden to the point guard position.
Most Improved Player: Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis (MIL) won this award the same year he played in his first all-star game. The Greek Freak is the first player since the 1973-1974 season to lead his team in points, rebounds, assists, blocks and steals. Antetokounmpo won this award in a landslide over Rudy Gobert (UTA) and Nikola Jokic (DEN).
Defensive Player of the Year: Draymond Green
Draymond Green (GSW) helped to propel the Golden State Warriors to another NBA Championship this past season with the help of his defensive presence. Green held opposing players to only 43.9% shooting which ranked 2nd among players who played at least 50 games. You can also credit his ability to trash talk and mentally compete against some of the best players in winning this award. Draymond won this award over Rudy Gobert (UTA) and Kawhi Leonard (SAS).
