Chicago Bulls’ Joakim Noah Wins ‘Defensive Player Of The Year’ After Falling Down The NBA MVP Race; Fans React That Anthony Davis Should Win The Award
Chicago Bulls big man Joakim Noah has been officially crowned as this season’s Defensive Player of the Year.
After averaging 12.6 points, 11.3 rebounds (sixth overall in the league), 5.4 assists, 1.31 blocks (12th overall in the league) and 1.24 steals per game during what looks like his career best regular season.
"This is very humbling to be in this situation right now," Noah said at a news conference after he was crowned with his new title.
He took the time to thank the Chicago Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau, claiming that his system fits perfectly for him and is what brought him to the top.
"Without your system, this wouldn't be possible," Joakim Noah said.
Joakim Noah also dedicated his award to his mentor Tyrone Green, who passed away last week.
"This award goes to somebody who I'll never forget," Noah said. "Somebody who just passed and meant so much to me, who believed in me. Mr. Green, I love you and I appreciate you and I know you're smiling down right now really proud. This award goes to you."
Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau, meanwhile, was all praises for his star player saying that he deserves his award and improvement in Noah’s playing career is a bag part of his success.
"Each year I think he's gotten better and better," Thibodeau said. "And I think that's a testament to his will and determination. And he's improved in many different areas -- everyone talks about the passing and his defense but offensively his scoring, his leadership, his professionalism (have grown)."
Meanwhile, haters of the big man where all seen after the announcement as they said they would rather see New Orleans Pelicans’ Anthony Davis receive the award.
When I found out @AntDavis23 wasn't DPOY! pic.twitter.com/uAst4ikoi6
— Michael Verbeck (@mjverbeck) April 21, 2014
The fact that Anthony Davis wasn't even top 7 in DPOY voting is ridiculous. Easily #2. — Full Court Prez (@fullcourtprez) April 21, 2014