Awards Show Some of the best work in the first half of the season came from unexpected sources. As the NBA heads into All-Star weekend, here are SI's trophy winners

MVP--Kevin Garnett, Timberwolves. The league's leading rebounder
(14.0 per game through Sunday) and No. 4 scorer (24.8 points) has
taken his game to yet another level--and his team into title
contention.

Rookie--Carmelo Anthony, Nuggets. Not only the top scorer (19.2)
on the most improved club but also ninth in the league in free
throw attempts--extraordinary feats for a 19-year-old.

Coach--Jerry Sloan, Jazz. Utah's success this season proves there
was more to this club than Malone and Stockton.

Executive--Kiki Vandeweghe, Nuggets. Denver may triple last
season's 17 wins, and thanks to the cap space and first-round
picks accumulated by the third-year G.M., the best is yet to
come.

Most Improved Player--Zach Randolph, Trail Blazers. After an
increase in playing time, from 16.9 minutes in 2002-03 to 39.2
this season, he's in the Top 10 in scoring and rebounding.

Defensive Player--Tim Duncan, Spurs. San Antonio will be tough to
unseat as champ because the Big Fundamental leads by example at
both ends.

Sixth Man--Bobby Jackson, Kings. The league's most productive
sub--28.0 points per 48 minutes--he sets an aggressive tone for
the West's top team.

Midseason All-NBA Team--Forwards: Garnett and Duncan. Center:
Brad Miller, Kings. Guards: Michael Redd, Bucks, and Baron Davis,
Hornets.

COLOR PHOTO: JOHN W. MCDONOUGH (JACKSON) Bobby Jackson

COLOR PHOTO: JOHN BIEVER Carmelo Anthony