LSU Forward Angel Reese Among Potential Naismith Player of the Year Contenders
LSU forward Angel Reese is making waves as one of the top women’s basketball players in the country. Reese played a pivotal role in leading LSU to a national championship last season, solidifying her position as a key player to watch in the upcoming season.
The Atlanta Tipoff Club presents the Naismith Player of the Year award annually to a player who demonstrates exceptional skill and success on the court. This prestigious award has been presented on the women’s side since 1983, and Reese is poised to contend for the title.
There are two players in Division I who have previously won the award and are in the running for a repeat. Here, we highlight seven players, with a few notable mentions, who are favored to win the Naismith Player of the Year award this season.
Caitlin Clark, Iowa
School: Iowa
Year: Senior
Position: 6-foot guard
Stats (2022-23): 27.8 ppg (47.3 FG%/38.9 3FG%/83.9 FT%), 7.1 rpg, 8.6 apg, 1.5 spg
Caitlin Clark, the reigning Naismith Player of the Year, is a force to be reckoned with on the court. Leading the nation in assists and placing second in points, Clark’s ability to score from anywhere in the half court sets her apart from other players. She made history in the NCAA tournament with back-to-back 40-point games, including a standout performance against previously undefeated South Carolina in the Final Four. With numerous records already under her belt, Clark is chasing the all-time triple-double record held by Sabrina Ionescu.
Angel Reese, LSU
School: LSU
Year: Junior
Position: 6-3 forward
Stats (2022-23): 23 ppg (52.5/—/70.8), 15.4 rpg, 1.8 spg, 1.5 bpg
Angel Reese made an immediate impact in her first season with LSU, leading the team to a national championship title. She received first-team All-America honors and was named NCAA tournament Greenville Regional MVP. With impressive stats, including leading Division I in offensive rebounds per game and recording 34 double-doubles in 36 games, Reese is a strong contender for the Player of the Year award. Despite criticism about LSU’s nonconference schedule, Reese proved herself against tough SEC competition. She will have additional frontcourt support from transfer Aneesah Morrow.
Paige Bueckers, UConn
School: UConn
Year: Redshirt Junior
Position: 6-0 guard
Stats (2021-22): 14.6 ppg (54.4/35.3/71.4), 4 rpg, 3.9 apg, 1.5 spg
Paige Bueckers, a highly anticipated recruit entering UConn, made history as the first freshman to win the Naismith Player of the Year award. Despite facing injuries in the past seasons, Bueckers has returned stronger and more determined. With an impressive recovery and being fully cleared to play this season, she is expected to make a significant impact. Taking inspiration from multiple Naismith award winners, Bueckers aims to fulfill high expectations and continue UConn’s legacy of success.
Elizabeth Kitley, Virginia Tech
School: Virginia Tech
Year: Fifth-year senior
Position: 6-6 center
Stats (2022-23): 18.2 ppg (55.8/—/72.2), 10.7 rpg, 1.5 apg, 2.4 bpg
Elizabeth Kitley, a Naismith finalist last season, decided to return to Virginia Tech for an additional year. Leading the Hokies to their first Final Four appearance, Kitley’s performance impressed fans and experts alike. As a two-time ACC Player of the Year, she brings invaluable experience and skill to the team. Kitley holds numerous school records and is known for her scoring ability, rebounding prowess, and shot-blocking skills.
Cameron Brink, Stanford
School: Stanford
Year: Senior
Position: 6-4 forward
Stats (2022-23): 15.1 ppg (48/—/84), 9.6 rpg, 1.8 apg, 3.47 bpg
Cameron Brink, a key player in Stanford’s national championship win as a freshman, has continued to improve year after year. With a strong defensive game, Brink won the WBCA Defensive Player of the Year award and was a finalist for the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year honor. Known for her shot-blocking abilities, she ranked third in the nation with almost 3.5 blocks per game. As Stanford’s sole senior, Brink will be a vital anchor for the team in their final season in the Pac-12.
Mackenzie Holmes, Indiana
School: Indiana
Year: Graduate student
Position: 6-3 forward
Stats (2022-23): 22.3 ppg (68/—/71.5), 7.3 rpg, 1.2 apg, 1.1 spg, 1.87 bpg
Mackenzie Holmes made history as the first Hoosier to earn first-team All-American honors. Known for her efficiency and versatility, Holmes is a formidable player on both ends of the court. Her performance earned her the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year award. With key returning guards, Indiana is expected to be a strong contender in the Big Ten conference, and Holmes will be an integral part of their success.
Alissa Pili, Utah
School: Utah
Year: Senior
Position: 6-2 forward
Stats (2022-23): 20.7 ppg (59/42.6/79.7), 5.6 rpg, 2.3 apg, 1 spg
Alissa Pili, the reigning Pac-12 Player of the Year, made a significant impact in her first season at Utah. With a career-high scoring performance in the NCAA tournament, she showcased her abilities on a national stage. Utah’s surprise run in the Pac-12 tournament and strong showing in the NCAA tournament demonstrated Pili’s leadership and scoring prowess. With the majority of the team returning, Pili will have the support she needs to excel on the court.
Honorable Mentions:
- Azzi Fudd (UConn)
- Aneesah Morrow (LSU)
- Cotie McMahon (Ohio State)
- Kamilla Cardoso (South Carolina)
