Men's College Basketball Player Of The Year
College basketball is one of the most popular sports in the United States, and every year, fans and experts alike eagerly anticipate the announcement of the Men's College Basketball Player of the Year. This award is given to the player who has shown the most skill, leadership, and overall excellence throughout the season, and it is one of the highest honors that a college basketball player can receive.
History of the Award
The Men's College Basketball Player of the Year award has been around since 1961, when it was first presented by the United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA). The award was originally known as the USBWA Player of the Year, and it was designed to recognize the best player in college basketball each season.
Over the years, the award has undergone a few changes. In 1995, it was renamed the Oscar Robertson Trophy in honor of the legendary basketball player who had been the USBWA's first Player of the Year back in 1959. In 2015, the award was renamed again, this time as the Wayman Tisdale Award, in honor of the former Oklahoma star who passed away in 2009.
Despite these changes, the award has remained one of the most prestigious honors in college basketball, and it is highly coveted by players and coaches alike.
Selection Process
The Men's College Basketball Player of the Year award is decided by a panel of sportswriters and broadcasters from across the country. These experts are asked to submit their top three choices for the award, and the player with the most votes is declared the winner.
The voting takes place at the end of the regular season, and the winner is typically announced a few days before the start of the NCAA Tournament. In some cases, the award is presented at a special ceremony before the Final Four games.
Recent Winners
Over the years, many great players have won the Men's College Basketball Player of the Year award. Some of the most recent winners include:
- 2021: Luka Garza (Iowa)
- 2020: Obi Toppin (Dayton)
- 2019: Zion Williamson (Duke)
- 2018: Jalen Brunson (Villanova)
- 2017: Frank Mason III (Kansas)
What It Takes to Win
Winning the Men's College Basketball Player of the Year award is no easy feat. To be considered for the award, a player must have an outstanding season, both individually and as part of their team.
Some of the key factors that the voters consider when selecting the winner include:
- Scoring: The ability to put points on the board is obviously crucial for any basketball player, and the best players in the country are typically among the top scorers in their respective conferences.
- Rebounding: A great rebounder can change the course of a game, and the best players in the country are usually among the leaders in rebounding.
- Distribution: The ability to distribute the ball and set up teammates for scoring opportunities is also important, and the best players in the country are typically among the leaders in assists.
- Leadership: Finally, the Men's College Basketball Player of the Year is expected to be a leader both on and off the court. They should be respected by their teammates, coaches, and opponents, and they should be able to inspire their team to victory.
Conclusion
The Men's College Basketball Player of the Year award is one of the most prestigious honors in college basketball, and it is reserved for the best players in the country. Winning this award requires a combination of skill, leadership, and overall excellence, and it is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players who receive it.