On March 20th, the four finalists for this year’s Naismith Award were announced. To UVA fans’ profound excitement, Malcolm Brodgon made the list, joining three other top players: Kentucky’s Tyler Ulis, Michigan State’s Denzel Valentine, and Oklahoma’s Buddy Hield. The winner is declared NCAA Basketball’s Player of the Year.
Along with his impressive stats and awards this year, Brogdon holds his own against his fellow finalists. Brogdon was the first ACC player ever to receive both ACC Player of the Year and ACC Defensive Player of the Year. He averages 18.6 points and 4.0 rebounds per game. Brogdon also achieved first-team All-American honors for the second straight year.
Commentators have positioned Buddy Hield as the frontrunner most recently, but only time will tell. Results are decided by the Atlanta Tipoff Club and will be announced Sunday, April 3.
If Brogdon is chosen, he will be the first UVA player in 33 years, since Ralph Sampson, to win this prestigious award.
