Alanna Smith and A'ja Wilson split the vote, both named co-WNBA Defensive Player of the Year

In a historic first for the WNBA, the Defensive Player of the Year award has been shared by two players: Minnesota Lynx forward Alanna Smith and Las Vegas Aces forward A'ja Wilson. The tie resulted from both players receiving 29 votes each.

Other players who received votes include Seattle Storm forward Gabby Williams (9 votes), Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas (3 votes), and Napheesa Collier of the Lynx (2 votes). Despite Collier being a former Defensive Player of the Year and current MVP contender, Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve advocated for Smith to win the award this season.

Smith, a 6-foot-4 rim protector, played a crucial role in making the Lynx the top defensive team during the regular season and the number one playoff seed. She ranked third in the league with 1.9 blocks per game, behind Ezi Magbegor and Wilson, and was second in defensive rating (96.4) and defensive win shares (2.9). She also placed in the top 10 for steal percentage (2.6%).

Beyond defense, Smith contributed offensively with averages of 9.6 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. Her defensive capabilities were especially highlighted during a seven-game stretch when Collier was absent, during which Smith averaged 2.4 steals and 2.1 blocks per game, helping the Lynx to a 5-2 record and reinforcing her case for the award.