Bam Adebayo is widely regarded as one of the top big men in the NBA. His standing in the game was further solidified this summer as the Miami Heat handed him a three-year, $166 million extension.
Adebayo has recently been vocal about his views on the current system for award voting.
Despite making five All-Defensive teams and earning three All-Star nods, Adebayo has never made an All-NBA team or won a Defensive Player of the Year award.
Adebayo appears to believe that media voters may not fully grasp what it takes to perform at the highest level. According to Heat Nation, he said: “I know what I am and where I should be, but those things are voted on by the media.
“They don’t play against me. They don’t know, no offense to them, what it takes.”
While Adebayo has received recognition for his defense, including being a top-five finalist for Defensive Player of the Year for five consecutive seasons, he has yet to make an All-NBA team or win the prestigious DPOY award. This lack of recognition could be due to the voting system, where media members often have the final say.
This offseason, Adebayo’s massive extension further solidified his place as a key figure for the Heat. However, his contract could have been even larger had he received more accolades.
Still, Adebayo remains focused on his role with the team. Hopefully, he can use any perceived lack of recognition as motivation for future success.
Coming off another strong season where he averaged 19.3 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, Adebayo also showcased an improving 3-point shot, an element that could make him even harder to deal with on the court.
As the Heat look to make another run at the title, Adebayo will continue to be a cornerstone of their success, and perhaps with a Championship ring on his finger, the awards may soon follow.