Minneapolis/St. Paul – The NBA today announced Minnesota Timberwolves forward/center Karl-Anthony Towns is the recipient of the Eddie Gottlieb trophy as the winner of the Kia NBA Rookie of the Year Award. Towns becomes just the fifth unanimous NBA Rookie of the Year in the last 32 years, joining Damian Lillard (2012-2013 season), Blake Griffin (2010-11), David Robinson (1989-90) and Ralph Sampson (1983-84).
With today’s announcement, Wolves players have won the award in back-to-back seasons with Andrew Wiggins taking the honor for the 2014-15 season. Minnesota is the first team with back-to-back Rookie of the Year winners since the Buffalo Braves in 1972-73 (Bob McAdoo) and 1973-74 (Ernie DiGregorio).