Top Contenders for the Naismith Player of the Year Award in Women’s College Basketball

As the season progresses, it’s important to keep an eye on potential winners of the Naismith Player of the Year award. Presented by the Atlanta Tipoff Club, this prestigious award recognizes outstanding achievements on the basketball court. The women’s award has been given since 1983 and has seen two past winners re-emerge as potential winners this year. Here are the top contenders, along with a few honorable mentions:

Caitlin Clark, Iowa

Senior | 6-foot guard
Stats: 27.8 ppg (47.3 FG%/38.9 3FG%/83.9 FT%), 7.1 rpg, 8.6 apg, 1.5 spg

Caitlin Clark, the reigning Naismith Player of the Year, led the nation in assists last season and finished second in points. Known for her scoring ability from anywhere on the court, she made history in the NCAA tournament with back-to-back 40-point games, including a standout performance against undefeated South Carolina in the Final Four. With numerous records already under her belt, including 11 triple-doubles in the Big Ten, Clark is a strong contender for the award.

Angel Reese, LSU

Junior | 6-3 forward
Stats: 23 ppg (52.5/—/70.8), 15.4 rpg, 1.8 spg, 1.5 bpg

Angel Reese played a pivotal role in leading LSU to a national championship in her first season with the team. She was awarded first-team All-America honors and named the NCAA tournament Greenville Regional MVP. Reese led Division I in offensive rebounds per game and recorded an impressive 34 double-doubles in 36 games. Despite criticism of the team’s nonconference schedule, Reese and LSU proved themselves against strong competition. With the addition of Aneesah Morrow to the frontcourt, Reese is poised for another exceptional season.

Paige Bueckers, UConn

Redshirt junior | 6-0 guard
Stats: 14.6 ppg (54.4/35.3/71.4), 4 rpg, 3.9 apg, 1.5 spg

Paige Bueckers made history last year as the first freshman to win the Naismith Player of the Year award. Despite injuries that sidelined her for parts of the season, Bueckers led UConn to the Final Four and championship game. After recovering from a torn ACL, she has returned stronger than ever. With the guidance of head coach Geno Auriemma, Bueckers has the potential to win multiple Naismith awards, joining the likes of Maya Moore and Tina Charles.

And so on, continuing with the other contenders and honorable mentions…

Reference

Laura Davis

Laura Davis covers the world of basketball with precision. Her articles explore NBA and college basketball, offering game analysis, player profiles, and highlights. Laura’s passion for hoops is evident in her comprehensive basketball coverage.