NBA All-Defensive Teams Announced: Wembanyama and Holmgren Headline

Victor Wembanyama of the San Antonio Spurs was the lone unanimous All-Defensive First Team pick after winning Defensive Player of the Year.

Chet Holmgren of the Oklahoma City Thunder joins Wembanyama on the First Team, marking his first All-Defensive selection.

The First Team also includes Ausar Thompson (Detroit Pistons), Rudy Gobert (Minnesota Timberwolves), and Derrick White (Boston Celtics).

The Second Team features Scottie Barnes (Toronto Raptors), Cason Wallace (Oklahoma City Thunder), Bam Adebayo (Miami Heat), OG Anunoby (New York Knicks), and Dyson Daniels (Atlanta Hawks).

The Oklahoma City Thunder is the only team with multiple players selected across both teams.

Victor Wembanyama:: His unanimous selection underscores his dominant defensive presence, leading the league in blocks (3.1 per game). Wembanyama's defensive versatility and rim protection have transformed the Spurs' defense.

Chet Holmgren:: Anchoring the Thunder's top-rated defense, Holmgren's rim protection and defensive IQ have been pivotal to their success. His ability to alter shots and defend in space makes him a defensive cornerstone.

Ausar Thompson:: Thompson's emergence as a premier perimeter defender earned him his first All-Defensive selection. His tenacity and ability to generate steals disrupt opposing offenses.

Rudy Gobert:: A perennial All-Defensive selection, Gobert continues to be a dominant force in the paint. His presence deters opponents from attacking the basket and anchors the Timberwolves' defense.

Derrick White:: White's versatility and shot-blocking prowess as a guard earned him a spot on the First Team. His defensive contributions have been vital to the Celtics' defensive efficiency.

Scottie Barnes:: Barnes' all-around defensive game earned him a spot on the Second Team. His ability to guard multiple positions and generate steals makes him a valuable asset.

Cason Wallace:: Wallace's disruptive perimeter defense and league-leading steal numbers highlight his impact on the Thunder's defense.

Bam Adebayo:: Adebayo's versatility and ability to guard multiple positions make him one of the league's most valuable defenders. His defensive presence is crucial to the Heat's success.

OG Anunoby:: Anunoby's reputation as a lockdown defender continues to grow, earning him a spot on the Second Team. His ability to defend top offensive players makes him a key defensive piece.

Dyson Daniels:: Daniels followed up his strong defensive campaign last year with another great one in ‘25–‘26, securing a spot on the Second Team.

The 2025-26 All-Defensive Teams showcase the league's top defensive talents, with a mix of established stars and emerging players.

Victor Wembanyama's unanimous selection highlights his immediate impact as a defensive force.

The Oklahoma City Thunder's multiple selections underscore their commitment to defense as a key to success.

These awards emphasize the importance of defense in the NBA and recognize the players who excel at this crucial aspect of the game.