Evan Mobley wins 2025 NBA Defensive Player of the Year

Mobley takes home the award.

Evan Mobley has been named the NBA’s 2025 Defensive Player of the Year. This is Mobley’s first time winning the award. He becomes just the fourth player in league history to win DPOY before his 24th birthday.

The Cleveland Cavaliers hoped they were drafting a player of this caliber when they selected Mobley third overall in 2021. They had no idea he’d blossom into an All-Defensive player so quickly. By his sophomore season, Mobley was a DPOY finalist. Two years later, he won the award for himself.

Mobley is the first Cavalier to win the award. Dyson Daniels finished second in voting, Draymond Green wound up third.

Mobley’s case for the award was simple. He’s one of the most versatile defenders in the league who can protect the paint and hang on the perimeter as good as anybody. His growth as a rebounder only further solidified his impact on defense.

The Cavs took a slight step back defensively this season. Previously a top-three defense, Cleveland slid to outside the top five after ramping up their pace and focusing more on offense. But make no mistake, the Cavs could still turn up the intensity on defense. That’s primarily because Mobley is a world-class talent.

Mobley has games where he is in full control of the defensive side of the ball. His size and athleticism make him a disruptive force. Mobley’s presence can talk opponents into avoiding the paint altogether. His pairing with Jarrett Allen only reinforces Mobley’s ability to cover ground. Mobley can play free safety while Allen watches his back.

This is a well-deserved win for Mobley. He’s been an elite defender since entering the league and now he is officially DPOY stamped.