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Sixers Nerlens Noel Named First Team All-Rookie

By Cody Daniel

Mar 27, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Nerlens Noel (4) reacts after a score against the Los Angeles Clippers during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 27, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Nerlens Noel (4) reacts after a score against the Los Angeles Clippers during the second quarter at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Here’s some news that shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone that watches basketball: Nerlens Noel, the Philadelphia 76ers box-topped rim protector, has been named as a First Team All-Rookie selection.

Noel also finished third in the NBA in Rookie of the Year voting, behind Minnesota’s Andrew Wiggins and Nikola Mirotic of the Chicago Bulls, and he was unquestionably the most imposing big man in his rookie class. As a rookie by default after sitting out for a season and recovering from a torn ACL, Noel led all rookies in rebounds, blocks and steals with 8.1, 1.9 and 1.8, respectively. Noel also fell just short of averaging double figures on the scoreboard with 9.9 per game.

I’m not sure there are many who could refute Noel earning a place among the very best rookies this season. Not only did he have the statistical impact I just mentioned, but his athleticism, energy and tenacity on both sides of the ball made watching a bottom-feeding 76ers team much more bearable in the midst of yet another year of tanking.

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I also doubt many would argue this is the last time we’ll see Noel’s name highlighted in praise for his season-long efforts. Noel has already begun to establish himself as a defensive juggernaut and with some continued development towards an offensive game that’s a work in progress, we could be looking at one of the most well-rounded young talents the NBA has to offer.

Noel’s company as a First Team All-Rookie includes Wiggins, Mirotic, Elfrid Payton of the Orlando Magic and Jordan Clarkson of the Los Angeles Lakers.

Next: 50 Greatest NBA Players Without a Championship

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