Garnett, Bryant among top defenders

New York — Boston Celtics forward Kevin Garnett and Lakers guard Kobe Bryant have been selected to the NBA all-defensive first team for a record-tying ninth time.

Garnett and Bryant were joined by Magic center Dwight Howard, who has won the past three Defensive Player of the Year awards and received the most points Monday.

Also selected for the first team were Heat forward LeBron James and Celtics guard Rajon Rondo.

Garnett and Bryant tied Michael Jordan and Gary Payton for the most selections in NBA history.

The league's coaches vote on the team.

The second team has Grizzlies guard Tony Allen, Hornets guard Chris Paul, Mavericks center Tyson Chandler, 76ers forward Andre Iguodala and Bulls forward-center Joakim Noah.

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