Memphis Grizzlies’ power forward/center, Jaren Jackson Jr., has been named the 2022-23 Defensive Player of the Year in the National Basketball Association (NBA) (ESPN). Jackson becomes the second Grizzlies player to win this award after following up his first-team All-Defense season in 2021-22 (Commercial Appeal). He is one of only four players in NBA history to have averaged at least three blocks and one steal per game (ESPN). Jackson edged out Milwaukee’s Brook Lopez and Cleveland’s Evan Mobley for this honor, which was announced on Monday (NBA.com). The 23-year-old led the NBA with three blocks per contest, 0.5 higher than the next closest player in Brooklyn’s Nic Claxton and Lopez (The Athletic).
Jackson was a force to reckon with as he blocked and altered shots to protect the rim for the Grizzlies. Apart from being an All-Star for the first time, he emerged as the ultimate shot-blocker of the season. Jackson ranked first in blocks per game, swatting an average of three per contest. He also recorded more than one steal per game, showing how he could make an impact both offensively and defensively (USA Today).
Despite being relatively young, Jackson has proven to be a key figure in the Grizzlies’ success. His contributions on both ends of the floor have been invaluable for his team. While Ja Morant is often considered the face of the franchise, the Grizzlies are currently Jackson’s team (Commercial Appeal).
In conclusion, Jaren Jackson Jr.’s performance in the 2022-23 season has earned him the well-deserved honor of Defensive Player of the Year in the NBA. As he continues to grow and improve his game, Jackson is bound to become even more integral to the Memphis Grizzlies’ success.
