When the 2024–25 NBA season tipped off, all eyes were on Victor Wembanyama, Rudy Gobert, and Jaren Jackson Jr. for the Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) title. But in a twist that few predicted, Cleveland Cavaliers forward Evan Mobley rose through the ranks and snatched the coveted DPOY trophy and those who backed him early at +2000 odds on the best sports betting site OKBet are now celebrating serious payouts.
Let’s break down what happened, how Mobley outshined the competition, and just how much you could have won if you placed a bet at the start of the season.
Evan Mobley became the first Cleveland Cavaliers player in history to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award. That’s a huge deal not just for the franchise but also for fans who’ve followed Mobley’s development since he entered the league.
At just 23 years old, Mobley averaged:
Those numbers, combined with his impressive help defense, closeouts, and ability to guard multiple positions, made him a standout defender all season long.
At the beginning of the season, Mobley wasn't on many bettors' radars. OKBet gave him +2000 odds to win the award meaning a ₱1,000 wager would yield ₱21,000 if he took home the trophy.
Here’s how those odds compared to other top contenders:
| Player | Opening Odds | Potential Return on ₱1,000 Bet |
| Victor Wembanyama | -250 | ₱1,400 total (₱400 profit) |
| Rudy Gobert | +900 | ₱10,000 total (₱9,000 profit) |
| Jaren Jackson Jr. | +1800 | ₱19,000 total (₱18,000 profit) |
| Evan Mobley | +2000 | ₱21,000 total (₱20,000 profit) |
| Draymond Green | +6600 | ₱67,000 total (₱66,000 profit) |
Mobley wasn't the safest pick but he was one of the smartest high-value bets. Those with insight or belief in his potential defensive leap were richly rewarded.
Mobley’s ability to defend guards on the perimeter and protect the rim made him indispensable to Cleveland’s top-ranked defense.
The Cavaliers finished the season with a 64-18 record, thanks largely to their defense, which ranked third in the league. Mobley was the defensive engine of that unit.
While stats backed up his case, what really stood out was Mobley’s defensive IQ his rotations, anticipation, and positional awareness.
The Spurs’ rookie phenom was the preseason favorite at -250. But a mid-season injury dashed his DPOY hopes.
Both put up solid defensive seasons, but Mobley’s two-way consistency and leadership on a top-seeded team gave him the edge.
Mobley was humble in his reaction, crediting his teammates and coaching staff. “It’s an honor. I just tried to be the best version of myself on the court,” he said.
The league, analysts, and even former DPOY winners praised Mobley for bringing back the art of fundamental defense.
Watch his reaction here: Evan Mobley Reacts to Winning DPOY
Evan Mobley on winning DPOY:
— ¹⁰ (@HoodiGarland) April 24, 2025
“It was a big goal of mine. It just feels great to finally win this award.”
pic.twitter.com/igHFlwuYU8
If you placed a ₱1,000 bet on Mobley at the season's start, here’s what you walked away with:
Even a modest bet of ₱500 would have netted ₱10,500.
OKBet consistently offers:
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Evan Mobley’s 2025 DPOY win isn’t just a great sports story it’s a lesson in spotting potential and trusting the process. If you were savvy enough to place a bet through OKBet when the odds were sky-high, you’re probably still smiling.
As we look ahead to the next NBA season, remember: smart betting isn’t just about stats it’s about timing, insight, and a little bit of guts
Mobley started the season with +2000 odds on OKBet.
A ₱1,000 bet would return ₱21,000, including your original stake.
Victor Wembanyama, Rudy Gobert, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Draymond Green.
Wembanyama suffered a season-ending injury, while Mobley anchored Cleveland’s elite defense all year.
Absolutely. It offers excellent odds, fast payouts, and a user-friendly interface.
He’s got a strong shot! If Cleveland remains a defensive powerhouse, Mobley could become a back-to-back winner.
