Rudy Gobert since his early days in the NBA has established himself as one of the strongest defenders and his three Defensive Player of the Year (DPOY) titles along with other accolades validate it. However, he couldn’t defend himself from the harsh voters who feel the Timberwolves center is the most overrated player in the league, but his girlfriend did.
In a recent anonymous NBA Player poll conducted by The Athletic, Gobert topped the most overrated players list followed by Jordan Poole and Trae Young. The French center was a little sloppy last season in the Minnesota franchise, but he earned his teammates’ trust this season with his exceptional versatility on the hardwood. Hence this poll infuriated his girlfriend, Julia Bonilla.
Describing Gobert as “the most dedicated, focused, hard-working person,” Julia lashed out at the NBA community by saying, “He hasn’t stolen anything from anyone and deserves all the respect for his determination and commitment to his career.” She continued, “It’s hard for me to stay quiet in front of so much stupidity, disrespect and nonsense. I am so proud of the person he is – fair, a great teammate, with a good heart and a strong mind.”
Julia Bonilla defends Rudy Gobert
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 22, 2024
“My partner is the most dedicated, focused, hard-working person I have ever met. He hasn't stolen anything from anyone and deserves all the respect for his determination and commitment to his career. It's hard for me to stay quiet in front of… pic.twitter.com/7fdAFLtxb9
Julia showed unwavering support and pride for Gobert and vented her anger at those who failed to recognize the former rebounding leader’s caliber. Her enormous support indicates the strong relationship the two have developed.
Rudy Gobert, Julia Bonilla relationship timeline
Rudy Gobert and Julia Bonilla have maintained privacy when it comes to their dating life. While it is not known when the pair got romantically involved with each other, the story of their pregnancy has been out there in public. The 31-year-old center himself broke the news on Instagram that they are expecting their first child. Rudy Gobert posted a picture with his hand on Julia’s bump and captioned it “Legacy”.
Julia has often been seen on the courtside supporting her boyfriend and has now extended her support off the court as well. Gobert’s contribution to the Timberwolves’ defense might not be valued by some but he is the leading contender for the DPOY title again this season.
Following the brutal criticisms, he might be charged up in their upcoming game against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday taking full advantage of their home court.
