If the ball was up for grabs, it belonged to Shabazz. Kent Smith/NBAE/Getty Images

Shabazz is among NBDL leaders in blocked shots, as well as offensive, defensive and total rebounding, but Charleston head coach Doug Marty says it's the things that go unnoticed in the final box score that set Shabazz apart.

"He has great vision, timing and determination that allow him to affect the game in ways not seen on his stat line," Marty said. "Things like how he handles his man, altering shots and helping teammates in every possible situation. He is very deserving of this award."

Shabazz leads the league in total blocked shots with 91 and is second in blocks per game with 2.2. The Providence ('02) product is fifth in the league in total rebounds (7.5), defensive rebounds (5.2) and offensive rebounds (2.3).

He has blocked three or more shots in 17 games and has recorded at least 10 rebounds 13 times this season. Shabazz has played in 41 games (40 starts), has recorded five double-doubles, 44 steals and averages 6.6 points per game.

"Karim has proven all season long that a player can make a difference on the defensive end of the floor," NBDL director of basketball operations Chris Alpert said. "His abilities have proven to be the focal point of Charleston's defensive efforts, which has allowed the Lowgators to remain at, or near the top of, the league standings all year long.

"When you watch him play you are amazed by how hard he works, how he fights for defensive position and communicates with his teammates on rotations and assignments," Alpert said. "On top of that, he gets their fast break going with pinpoint outlet passing."

Shabazz joins Mikki Moore and Jeff Myers as winners of the NBDL Defensive Player of the Year Award. Moore, who won the award last season, is currently playing with the Utah Jazz. Myers, now playing with the Columbus Riverdragons, was the inaugural winner while playing with the Greenville Groove.