Wooden Watch: Week 2

Story posted November 21, 2022 in

After just a few games into the season, it’s time to take a closer look at a few potential Wooden Award candidates so far.

Drew Timme, Gonzaga

Drew Timme has been a key player for Gonzaga for years now. After deciding to return for his senior year, Timme is destined for big numbers and production.

Through three games, Timme has averaged 20.8 points along with eight rebounds per game. Although the Zags are coming off a disappointing loss against Texas, they still figure to be a force going forward, with Timme at the forefront of it.

Oscar Tshiebwe, Kentucky

How can you not mention the winner of the Wooden award from last year?

Tshiebwe has been a force for Kentucky, winning the 2021-22 award averaging 17.4 points and 15.1 rebounds a game. So far this season he’s only played two games, both coming off the bench.

Regardless, he’s averaging 14 points and 12.5 rebounds per game. These numbers should only increase as the year goes on.

Jalen Wilson, Kansas

Coming off a National Championship last year, Jalen Wilson looks to be the main piece of this Kansas team, with players like Christian Braun and Ochai Agbaji heading to the NBA.

Wilson has wasted no time getting started, averaging 21.7 points and 10.3 rebounds through three games. He’ll certainly look to keep this play up and is my pick to walk away with the Wooden at this moment.

Armando Bacot, North Carolina

Armando Bacot is a very decorated senior on the No. 1 ranked North Carolina Tar Heels. He’s been very impressive so far, especially last year averaging 16.3 points and 12.5 rebounds in the 2021-22 season. So far this season, Bacot is averaging 18.0 points and 8.0 rebounds.

Being on this very dominant North Carolina team, expect Armando to have a solid season leading the Tar Heels. He’s most defenley one of the most talented players in the nation and shows it night in and night out.

Caleb Love, North Carolina

Another North Carolina Tar Heel player, Caleb Love has been a pivotal piece for this team the past few years. He has steadily improved every season and is expected to do so again as he only continues to develop and play key minutes.
Through three games, he’s averaging 20.7 points so far. If North Carolina ends up being the juggernaut team they’re expected to be, don’t be surprised to see either Love or Bacot take home the Wooden.

Honorable Mentions:

Marcus Sasser, Houston

Hunter Dickinson, Michigan

Trayce Jackson-Davis, Indiana)

Brady McCormick is a third-year majoring in telecommunications. To contact him, email bmm6399@psu.edu.

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