With Aces star A’ja Wilson winning her third MVP honors last weekend, the focus has shifted to the 2024 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award. Wilson and Lynx standout Napheesa Collier are both top contenders, sparking intense debates.
Aces coach Hammon’s statement on A’ja Wilson
Last Thursday, Las Vegas head coach Becky Hammon called out ESPN journalists who revealed their 2024 WNBA votes. Hammon defended players not on her team, like New York’s Sabrina Ionescu, and criticized voters for choosing Collier as DPOY.
“They got the MVP right,” she told the press. “If you have to search for someone else for Defensive Player of the Year, you already know the answer.”
Lynx coach Reeve’s support for Napheesa Collier
During an episode of Good Game with Sarah Spain, Minnesota head coach Cheryl Reeve defended the DPOY vote for Collier. Reeve, the favorite for 2024 Coach of the Year, believes Collier is a strong contender.
“Most people I talk to believe [Collier] is a unanimous decision,” Reeve stated. She argued that Collier’s versatility and defensive impact make her deserving of the award.
Who should win WNBA Defensive Player of the Year?
A’ja Wilson, a two-time DPOY winner, has had an outstanding season with record-setting rebound numbers and impressive defensive stats. However, Napheesa Collier’s defensive skills and impact on her team’s performance have made her a compelling candidate for the award.
While Wilson leads in certain defensive categories, Collier’s contributions to Minnesota’s defense have made her a standout player. The decision between the two stars ultimately comes down to individual performance versus team impact.
Reeve summarized the dilemma by stating, “it depends on what you value when you vote.”
