21 players the NBA repeatedly snubbed for Defensive Player of the Year

Snubbed Defensive Player #8: Serge Ibaka

At his peak, Serge Ibaka was one of the most dominant rim protectors of the 2010s, yet, surprisingly, he never won a Defensive Player of the Year trophy. He technically still has time and is one of a couple of active players on this list, but he’s obviously not at the same level he was during his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder. Ibaka spent seven seasons with the Thunder and led the NBA in total blocks for five straight years.

His mobility, leaping ability, and timing allowed the Thunder to play an aggressive style of defense where they often packed the paint and utilized their length and athleticism to close out on shooters.

Ibaka was the linchpin of their defensive attack since he could rotate over to the weak side and swat shots when opposing players got into the lane. Ibaka was particularly effective against Oklahoma City’s rivals, the San Antonio Spurs. He faced them three times in the playoffs and proved crucial in toppling them twice by shutting down the paint and limiting Parker, Ginobili, and Duncan’s effectiveness, resulting in the Thunder making the NBA Finals in 2012.

While Ibaka ultimately never won a DVOP, he did finish a close second in the 2012–13 season behind Chandler. Still, at his best, Ibaka was a game-changing defender who helped a then-young Thunder team excel on the defensive end.