The 2011-12 Philadelphia 76ers are getting a lot of love for playing solid defense. Under Doug Collins, the team has embraced defense in a huge way. They rank among the best teams in the NBA in most defensive categories and that is why they are off to a strong start. But will any of these players earn recognition on the All-NBA Defensive First Team? A total of five 76ers have earned that honor in the past. This could be the year another joins the list. Here is a look at the five 76ers players to earn All-NBA Defensive First Team honors.

Bobby Jones

Jones earned All-NBA Defensive First Team honors every year between 1979 and 1984. In 1983, he was one of three 76ers players to earn a spot on the team. He reached the first team in the two seasons before he joined the 76ers as well. He was known for his quiet demeanor and respectful play. Jones didn’t draw a lot of attention to himself but the man could grab rebounds and block shots as good as any player in the NA.

Caldwell Jones

Jones was a member of the team in 1981 and 1982. He was a career journeyman that had his two best seasons with the 76ers. Jones was a regular double digit rebounder with the 76ers and also averaged multiple blocks per game. He left the team before the 1982-83 championship season but carried on a solid career until 1990.

Moses Malone

Malone earned honors in 1983, the year he helped the 76ers win the NBA championship. He had earned the MVP award the previous season with the Houston Rockets and did so again with the 76ers. He led the league in rebounding in the 1982-83 season and also contributed two blocks per game.

Maurice Cheeks

Cheeks earned a spot on the team each season between 1983 and 1986. He was another player that didn’t attract a lot of attention yet quietly played amazing defense. Along with Jones and Malone he helped the 1982-83 76ers become one of the greatest defensives teams in NBA history. Cheeks was the all-time NBA leader in steals when he retired.

Dikembe Mutombo

Mutombo earned a spot on the 2001 team. He also won the Defensive Player of the Year award, the only 76ers player to ever win that honor. He was a midseason acquisition for the 76ers and helped the team reach the NBA Finals. Mutombo was among the best in the NBA in rebounds and blocks so it should be no surprise that he is on this list.

* – Mark Paul is a Philadelphia resident and 76ers fan. Follow him on Twitter here.

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