NBA: Philadelphia’s Michael Carter-Williams named Rookie of the Year

Michael Carter-Williams has been named 2014 Rookie of the Year.

The Sixers point guard, who became only the third player since 1950-51 to lead all rookies in scoring, rebounding and assists, won the Eddie Gottlieb Trophy,  joining Allen Iverson as the only players in franchise history to win the award.

Carter-Williams, drafted 11th overall last summer, is the first player drafted 10th or lower to win the honor since New York Knicks point guard Mark Jackson in 1987.

“This award is great. It’s greatly appreciated,” said Carter-Williams after being presented with the trophy.

“But you know I’d definitely trade this award in a second to be in the playoffs. … This game is about winning. It’s not about individual awards.”

Carter-Williams received 104 of 124 first-place votes from select NBA media members, finishing with 569 points. Victor Oladipo of the Orlando Magic finished second with 364 total points and 16 first-place votes, while Trey Burke of the Utah Jazz finished third with 96 points and one first-place vote.

The win wasn’t a complete shock, as Carter-Williams was named the Eastern Conference rookie of the month four times in six months this season while averaging 16.7 points, 6.3 assists, 6.2 rebounds and 1.86 steals per game. He finished with the sixth-most steals in the NBA and tied for 11th in assists.

“The more time that I spend with Michael, the more you realize that he aspires for greatness, and we challenge him to be great,” said Sixers coach Brett Brown.

“He has far exceeded, on all levels, toughness, leadership, skill package, and intellect. … He carries himself really, really well.”

Carter-Williams joined Oscar Robertson in 1960-61 and Alvan Adams in 1975-76 in leading all rookies in scoring, rebounding and assists. Carter-Williams, Robertson and Magic Johnson are only players to average at least 16 points, six rebounds and six assists in their rookie season.