NBL25 Midseason Award Standouts: The Front-Runners Shaping the Season

Josh Higgins

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Last updated: 22 Nov 2024

Josh Higgins 22 Nov 2024

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Who has performed the best so far this season?
Who will win the NBL25 Awards?
Josh Higgins from The Basketball Fix gives his current award winners.

Parker Jackson-Cartwright the front-runner for MVP. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

NBL25 Midseason Award Standouts: The Front-Runners Shaping the Season

As we approach the midpoint of the NBL25 season, standout performances from players and coaches have started to shape the award races. Here's an updated look at the leaders and contenders for each category, incorporating their current statistics and impact.

Most Valuable Player (MVP)

Leader: Parker Jackson-Cartwright (NZB)

The New Zealand Breakers’ 7-3 record has been fueled by Jackson-Cartwright’s dynamic play on both ends of the court. Averaging 18.6 points, 7.4 assists, 2 steals, and 3.7 rebounds on 46% shooting, he’s been the engine behind the team’s success, exceeding preseason expectations. His leadership and ability to deliver in key moments solidify him as the frontrunner.

Honourable Mentions:

Montrezl Harrell (ADE): A dominant inside presence and a consistent double-double threat.
Kendrick Davis (ADE): A reliable scorer and playmaker driving Adelaide’s offence.
Xavier Cooks (SYD): His versatility and impact on both ends for the Kings keep him in the race.

Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY)

Leader: Will Magnay (TAS)

Magnay has been a steady defensive anchor for the JackJumpers, averaging 1.5 blocks, 1.3 steals, and 6.8 rebounds per game. Despite Tasmania’s 5-8 record, his rim protection and defensive leadership have been crucial in keeping them competitive during a challenging start to the season.

Honourable Mentions:

Xavier Cooks (SYD): A defensive cornerstone, excelling in guarding multiple positions and rebounding.
Kristian Doolittle (PER): A key factor in Perth’s improving defensive identity.

Most Improved Player (MIP)

Leader: Will Hickey (ILL)

Hickey has elevated his game significantly, becoming a pivotal piece for the Illawarra Hawks, who sit at 7-4. His averages of 8.8 points, 4.4 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 0.8 blocks, and 1.2 steals per game reflect improvements across the board, particularly in his defensive versatility and offensive efficiency.

Honourable Mentions:

Jack White (MELB): Showing consistent growth on both ends for Melbourne.
Ben Henshall (PER): An emerging talent contributing at a high level for Perth.

Sixth Man of the Year (SMOY)

Leader: James Batemon (BRI)

Batemon’s scoring ability off the bench has been a bright spot for the Brisbane Bullets. Averaging 15.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 0.8 steals on an efficient 52% shooting, his recent 51-point explosion underscores his capability to change games instantly.

Honourable Mentions:

Ian Clark (MELB): A veteran presence providing consistent production.
Kouat Noi (SYD): A dynamic scoring option for the Kings.
Will Hickey (ILL): His versatility makes him a candidate in multiple categories.

Next Generation Award (NGA)

Leader: Josh Bannan (BRI)

Despite an injury-disrupted start, Bannan has showcased his potential, averaging 11.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.1 assists on 38% shooting. As Brisbane’s young leader, he’s been instrumental in keeping the Bullets competitive and is emerging as a future star.

Honourable Mentions:

Ben Henshall (PER): His development has been key to Perth’s backcourt depth.

Alex Toohey (SYD): A young talent making strides in Sydney’s rotation.

Coach of the Year (COY)

Leader: Petteri Koponen (NZB)

In his first season as head coach, Koponen has transformed the New Zealand Breakers into a 7-3 powerhouse. With a revamped roster, his ability to instil a winning culture and exceed preseason expectations makes him the clear frontrunner.

Honourable Mentions:

Dean Vickerman (MELB): Guiding Melbourne to consistent success amidst strong competition.
Justin Tatum (ILL): Overseeing Illawarra’s resurgence to a 7-4 start, well above expectations.

Final Thoughts

The second half of the season will bring new storylines, with players and teams vying for supremacy in these award categories. Expect challenges from Xavier Cooks for MVP, Jack White for MIP, and rising stars like Ben Henshall to make a late-season push. The twists and turns ahead promise an exciting finish to NBL25.