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College Basketball: Top 5 candidates for Player of the Year

By Nathaniel Reeves

Jan 2, 2016; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners guard Buddy Hield (24) reacts after a play against the Iowa State Cyclones during the second half at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2016; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners guard Buddy Hield (24) reacts after a play against the Iowa State Cyclones during the second half at Lloyd Noble Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /
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Feb 7, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks forward Dillon Brooks (24) runs down the court against the Utah Utes at Matthew Knight Arena. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 7, 2016; Eugene, OR, USA; Oregon Ducks forward Dillon Brooks (24) runs down the court against the Utah Utes at Matthew Knight Arena. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Dillon Brooks, Oregon

For some unknown reason, Brooks was not included on the midseason Wooden Award watchlist. The sophomore apparently took that to heart and has been one of the best players in the nation over the past few weeks of conference play.

With that strong play, Brooks has become the huge favorite to win the Pac-12 Player of the Year award. As the Ducks continue to climb up the rankings, Brooks has crept into the discussion for the National Player of the Year as well.

Brooks has filled up the stat sheet all season long, averaging nearly 17 points, six rebounds, 3.2 assists, 1.2 steals and 0.5 blocks in 24 games this season per CBB Reference. Those numbers have gone way up over the past few games, as Brooks has five games of at least 20 points in conference play. Brooks turned in the best game of his career in Sunday’s win over the Utah Utes, as he poured in 30 points and dished out nine assists.

As those season averages would suggest, Brooks adds a great element of versatility for the Ducks. The 6-5, 205-pound Brooks can step outside and shoot from the perimeter, while also being the facilitator of the Oregon offense.

Much like Oregon as a whole, Brooks is being underrated nationally for now but is quickly gaining attention. If Brooks’ current tear continues, he will soon get the recognition he deserves in the race for Player of the Year.

Next: Denzel Valentine, Michigan State