With Aces star A’ja Wilson clinching her third MVP honors last weekend, the focus has now shifted to the 2024 WNBA Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) award. Wilson and Lynx standout Napheesa Collier are both top contenders, sparking passionate discussions.
Aces coach Hammon speaks out on A’ja Wilson
Last Thursday, Las Vegas head coach Becky Hammon criticized ESPN journalists who revealed their 2024 WNBA votes. She defended players outside of her team, like New York’s Sabrina Ionescu, and questioned why voters chose Collier for the DPOY title.
“They got the MVP stuff right,” she told the press. “The Defensive Player of the Year? If you have to, as a journalist or a reporter, go down a rabbit hole to find somebody else to be in the conversation, you already have the answer.”
Lynx coach Reeve fires back in support of Napheesa Collier
Minnesota head coach Cheryl Reeve, the favorite for 2024 Coach of the Year, defended Collier against criticisms. She stated that most people believe Collier deserves the DPOY award and highlighted Collier’s contributions to the team’s defense.
“You look at the top three or four defensive teams — in A’ja’s case, can you be the Defensive Player of the Year when your defense isn’t in that?” Reeve continued. “She’s had an incredible year, but she can have MVP and Napheesa Collier is Defensive Player of the Year.”
Who deserves to win WNBA Defensive Player of the Year?
Reigning back-to-back DPOY Wilson has had an outstanding season, breaking records with her rebounding and leading in blocks per game. On the other hand, Collier has also shown strong defensive abilities, particularly in steals and the team’s defensive performance.
The choice between the two stars seems to come down to individual skills versus team contribution. Ultimately, the decision lies in what voters value most when selecting the DPOY winner.
