The National Association of Basketball Coaches has named Nigerian basketball star Rueben Chinyelu as its Defensive Player of the Year, making him the first player in the history of the Florida Gators men’s basketball program to receive the honor, Bold Sports reports.
The award was determined by NABC-member coaches across Division I basketball in the United States.
Chinyelu emerged as one of the most improved players in the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball this season, excelling on both ends of the floor. He averaged 10.9 points and 11.2 rebounds per game, while recording 36 blocks, playing a key role in helping the Gators secure a No. 1 seed in the Southeastern NCAA Tournament.
Earlier in the month, the 22-year-old was also named SEC Defensive Player of the Year following a string of dominant performances throughout the season.
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In addition to his SEC and NABC honors, Chinyelu has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year award – an accolade he is strongly tipped to win. He was voted Naismith Player of The Week in February.
Chinyelu is now expected to declare for the 2026 NBA Draft after withdrawing from the 2025 edition. During his time at Florida, he helped lead the Gators to an impressive 63–12 (.840) record.
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