The NBA players are tired of having just the media and fans making award decisions for them. In the first annual NBPA awards, it was James Harden who was voted as the MVP for the 2014-2015 season, while Stephen Curry won the ‘Most Difficult to Guard’ and ‘Most Clutch Player’ awards.
LeBron James, not too surprisingly, was mentioned as the player others want to play with, while Gregg Popovich was the coach the most players want to play under. Chris Paul won some weird Oscar Robertson award (on and off the court achievements), while Allen Iverson got an honorary award, this ceremony’s version of the lifetime achievement one we know from many other establishments.
More than anything, this was about the players flexing their muscles. Showing they want to make their own decisions, trying to make is seem like their vote is more important than that of the media. For some, who hate the press, like Kevin Durant, it was especially satisfying.
Most Valuable Player – James Harden, Houston Rockets
Best Defender – DeAndre Jordan, Los Angeles Clippers
Hardest to Guard & Clutch Performer – Stephen Curry, Golden State Warriors
Coach You Most Want to Play For – Gregg Popovich, San Antonio Spurs
Game-Changer Honor – Allen Iverson
Oscar Robertson Visionary Award – Chris Paul
Best Homecourt Advantage – Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena
Player You Secretly Wish Was on Your Team – LeBron James, Cleveland Cavaliers
