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Rebounding Trends in the NBA: Who’s Dominating the Glass and What’s Next?
Record-Breaking 2024-25 Season Set the Stage
In a season that saw Ivica Zubac haul in an astonishing 1,010 rebounds, it’s clear that the Association’s big men are bringing their A-game to the glass. But Zubac wasn’t the only player making waves in the defensive trenches – the 2024-25 campaign was filled with jaw-dropping rebounding performances. Let’s dive into who’s leading the charge and where rebounding trends might be headed.
Meet the Jordan Challenge Winners (So Far)
The 2024-25 season was filled with unforgettable performances at both ends of the court. Here are the top rebounders who kept Jordan’s legacy alive with their impressive hustle and reach for the glass:
- Ivica Zubac, Clippers (1,010 Rebounds)
- Domantas Sabonis, Kings (972 Rebounds)
- Karl-Anthony Towns, Knicks (920 Rebounds)
- Jaylen Brown, Celtics (899 Rebounds)
- Thaddeus Young, Jazz (886 Rebounds)
Data-Driven Trends: The Numbers Don’t Lie
This season has seen a resurgence in rebounding dominance, with more centers and power forwards leading the charge. But what do the numbers tell us about where rebounding trends are heading?
- Big Men Still Reign Supreme: Despite guards and wings grabbing more rebounds than ever before, all of the top 10 rebounders this season are big men.
- Defensive Rebounding on the Rise: While offensive rebounds have been slipping in recent years, defensive rebounds have been on the rise, indicating a renewed focus on protecting the paint.
- Diverse Rebounding Threats: Teams are finding success with a mix of traditional rim protectors and more versatile big men who can score and defend at a high level. Look at Jalen Williams‘s breakout season as a prime example.
Meet the Next Generation of Rebounding Stars
While the likes of Clint Capela and Jusuf Nurkić have been crucial rebounders for years, the 2024-25 season has seen several young big men step up to the challenge. Keep an eye on these young guns who are making their mark on the glass:
- Caleb Ford, Suns
- Kel’el Ware, Heat
- Skylar Murray, Mavericks
- Alex Sarr, Wizards
- Donovan Clingan, Trail Blazers
Did You Know?
The NBA’s all-time leading rebounder, Wilt Chamberlain, averaged 22.9 rebounds per game in the 1961-62 season. While it’s unlikely we’ll see numbers like that again, the 2024-25 season has shown that rebounding dominance is alive and well in the modern NBA.
Pro Tips: Refining Your Rebounding Game
If you’re looking to up your rebounding game, whether you’re a fan of fantasy basketball or just looking to improve your own skills, here are some tips from the pros:
- Box Out: Namensize your opponent and put them in a position where they can’t easily get to the ball.
- Go for Every Ball: Rebounding isn’t just about grabbing the big rebounds – every loose ball can make a difference in the game’s outcome.
- Improve Your Vert: Jumping higher and faster can give you a significant advantage on the glass.
- Embrace the Grind: Rebounding often comes down to who wants it more – commit to being the grittiest player on the court, and you’ll see results.
FAQ: What Makes a Great Rebounder?
Q: Is size the most important factor in rebounding?
A: Not necessarily – while size can help, a great rebounder also needs elite timing, positioning, and a motor that never stops.
Q: How can guards and wings contribute to rebounding?
A: Regardless of position, any player can make an impact on the glass by being willing to crash the boards and using their unique skills to maximize their rebounding potential.
Q: Are there any drills that can help improve rebounding?
A: Yes! Practice box outs, offensive rebounding drills, and defensive rebounding drills to improve your ability to snag boards on both ends of the court.
What’s Next for Rebounding in the NBA?
As we look ahead to the 2025-26 season and beyond, it’s clear that rebounding will remain a critical aspect of the game. With young stars like Jalen Duren, Alperen Sengun, and Chet Holmgren continuing to develop, the future of rebounding looks bright – and competitive.
Stay tuned to 247Sports for more updates on the continuing evolution of rebounding trends in the NBA.