NBA reveals the finalists for the Rookie of the Year award
The NBA on Friday unveiled the three finalists for the Rookie of the Year award based on the voting results from a global panel of 100 sportswriters and broadcasters.
Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero, Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler and Oklahoma City Thunder forward Jalen Williams were announced on TNT as the three contenders for the award after strong individual performances this season.
Banchero is the front-runner to win after averaging 20 points, 6.9 rebounds and 3.7 assists. The No. 1 pick led the rookie class in a number of categories, including scoring, field goals per game (6.7), free throws (5.5) and 30-point games (6).
Kessler emerged as a candidate after a strong run, posting 9.2 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.3 blocks on 72% shooting from the field. The 22nd pick led all rookies in total rebounds and blocks, and finished fourth among all players in the league in that category.
Williams, the 12th pick, recorded averages of 14.1 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.4 steals on 35.6% shooting from 3-point range. He finished fourth in scoring, fourth in field goals and first in steals among all rookie players.
The NBA Rookie of the Year finalists: pic.twitter.com/DoODUHIB3H
— Cody Taylor (@CodyTaylorNBA) April 14, 2023
The race for the annual award appears to be down to just Banchero as the former Duke standout has been the favorite to win from the start of the season. However, Williams has picked up some steam in the conversation of late and Kessler has even picked up at least one first-place vote.
Overall, the rookie class had a tremendous year as players atop the draft board down to those selected later in the first round have performed at a high level. Certainly, Banchero, Kessler and Williams were deserving finalists.
The winner will be announced on TNT during its coverage of the playoffs.
