Rudy Gobert Secures Spot on NBA All-Defensive Second Team

On Thursday, Rudy Gobert, the towering center for the Minnesota Timberwolves, was recognized as a member of the NBA's All-Defensive Second Team, marking the eighth occasion he has received All-Defensive accolades throughout his career.

Previously, Gobert had been selected to the First Team seven times, making this his inaugural appearance on the Second Team. This recognition follows a year in which he clinched his fourth Defensive Player of the Year award.

In the current season, the 7-foot-1 French athlete ranked ninth in defensive win shares and boasted the 13th-best defensive rating across the league. The Timberwolves themselves finished sixth in overall defensive rating and fifth in points allowed per game, showcasing a solid defensive effort.

Interestingly, teammate Jaden McDaniels, who trailed Gobert by just one spot in defensive win shares, did not receive any All-Defensive team honors this year after making the Second Team last season.

As the Timberwolves gear up for the Western Conference finals, they find themselves in a challenging position, currently down 2-0 against the Oklahoma City Thunder. The pivotal Game 3 is scheduled for Saturday night at Target Center. Notably, Oklahoma City features two All-Defensive players: guard Lu Dort on the First Team and forward Jalen Williams on the Second Team.

Note: The video above originally aired May 20, 2025.

Anthony Bettin serves as a web producer at CBS Minnesota, focusing on breaking news and sports, particularly the Minnesota Vikings.