Pelicans forward Brandon Ingram has been named the 2019-20 Kia NBA Most Improved Player, the league announced Monday.
“I want to congratulate Brandon on winning the NBA’s Most Improved Player Award,” said Pelicans Governor Gayle Benson in a news release. “I am so proud of Brandon’s personal achievements this season and am glad to see him rewarded for all of his hard work and dedication. It has been a truly memorable year watching him excel on and off the court.”
Ingram, a 6-foot-9, 190-pound forward, was acquired by the Pelicans as part of the trade that sent Anthony Davis to the Los Angeles Lakers last July. He finished this season averaging a career-high 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.2 assists and .9 steals per game. Prior to the 2019-20 campaign his career averages were 13.9 points, 2.9 assists, 4.7 rebounds and 0.6 steals.
The former Duke standout shot 39 percent from the three-point line this season and increased his free throw percentage to .851.
“This award recognizes the countless extra hours Brandon spent in the gym this season as well as the diligence and commitment he puts into the game every day, both mentally and physically,” said Pelicans Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations David Griffin in a news release. “I could not be more excited for him and his family to receive this well-deserved honor.”
Ingram, earned his first NBA All-Star Game selection this season and becomes the first player in New Orleans franchise history to be named Most Improved Player. He's just the third player or coach in franchise history to win one of the league's annual awards, joining Chris Paul (Rookie of the Year – 2005-06) and Byron Scott (Coach of the Year – 2007-08).
