A'ja Wilson, Alanna Smith Share 2025 WNBA Defensive Player of Year

A'ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces and Alanna Smith of the Minnesota Lynx made WNBA history by becoming the first co-Defensive Players of the Year in 2025. Both players received 29 votes each from a panel of 72 sportswriters and broadcasters, marking the first time this award has been shared. Wilson secured her third Defensive Player of the Year award, joining an elite group of players, while Smith earned her first, anchoring the Lynx defense that led the league in defensive rating. Wilson led the league in multiple defensive categories including blocks per game, total rebounds, and combined steals and blocks, while also excelling offensively as the league's top scorer. Smith contributed significantly to Minnesota's defense with high rankings in steals, blocks, and defensive rating. Both players will receive a trophy and a monetary award, and their teams are strong contenders in the playoffs, largely due to their defensive leadership.