Gonzaga’s Ryan Nembhard makes Cousy Award watch list

Oct. 23—In a remarkable turn of events, Ryan Nembhard, the junior guard for Gonzaga, has been included in the watch list for the prestigious Bob Cousy Award. This honor is bestowed upon the top point guard in college basketball. It’s worth noting that Ryan’s older brother, Andrew, was also a finalist for this award two years ago, making it a remarkable achievement for the Nembhard family.

The Nembhard brothers have a history of making the preseason watch list, with Andrew being recognized in 2019 and 2021. Furthermore, Gonzaga’s Jalen Suggs was chosen by the Bob Cousy selection committee last year.

Ryan Nembhard, who recently transferred to Gonzaga from Creighton, was also named to the watch list prior to his sophomore season with the Bluejays. His performance at Creighton was highly sought after, as he started in 64 games over the last two seasons and showcased impressive statistics. During the 2022-23 season, he averaged 12.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 4.8 assists, while his freshman season was cut short due to injury, but he still managed to average 11.3 points and 4.4 assists.

Notably, Nembhard achieved a career-high 30 points in a game against Baylor during the NCAA Tournament, where he demonstrated his skills in scoring and shooting. Throughout the tournament, he averaged 14.0 points and 3.5 assists.

Gonzaga’s schedule includes matchups against three other point guards from the watch list. They will face Tristen Newton from UConn, Isaiah Collier from USC, and DJ Wagner from Kentucky. Additionally, the Bulldogs have the opportunity to compete against Dajuan Harris Jr. from Kansas, Tyler Kolek from Marquette, Judah Mintz from Syracuse, and Zakai Zeigler from Tennessee at the Maui Invitational.

The watch list also features several other talented players, such as Isaiah Stevens from Colorado State, Steven Ashworth from Creighton, Tyrese Proctor from Duke, Jamal Shead from Houston, Jahmir Young from Maryland, Jahvon Quinerly from Memphis, Nijel Pack from Miami, RJ Davis from North Carolina, Ace Baldwin Jr. from Penn State, Max Abmas from Texas, and Wade Taylor from Texas A&M.