Naismith Trophy Selections Highlight College Basketball’s Rising Stars

ATLANTA, Georgia — The Naismith Trophy, awarded annually to the most outstanding NCAA basketball players, both male and female, continues to draw attention as the 2025 season progresses. Named after Dr. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, the trophy has become a coveted honor since its inception, with the latest selections heightening anticipation on March 13, 2025.

Each year, the Atlanta Tipoff Club Board of Selectors plays a pivotal role in awards season. This board, comprised of prominent journalists, coaches, and team administrators, is responsible for narrowing down a list of players from the vast pool of talent. They begin by selecting 50 preseason candidates, known as the ‘Naismith Watch,’ then whittle that list to 30 midseason candidates before naming 10 semifinalists and ultimately four finalists.

“It’s a process that requires keen observation and analysis,” said a board member, who preferred to remain anonymous. “The candidates’ performance throughout the season is scrutinized to ensure we choose the true standouts.”

For the first time, fan votes have added a new dimension to the selection process, representing 25% of the final evaluation. This has resulted in a blend of expert opinion and public sentiment, enriching the selection experience.

The Naismith Trophy was first awarded to Lew Alcindor, also known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, from UCLA in 1969, with the women’s award debuting in 1983 to Anne Donovan of Old Dominion University. The trophy, designed by Marty C. Dawe, has cemented itself as a national honor for collegiate basketball. Additionally, the Atlanta Tipoff Club has introduced several other awards over the years, including the Naismith College Coach of the Year and the Outstanding Contribution Award.

As the season nears its climax, names like Ace Bailey, Johni Broome, and JuJu Watkins are generating buzz for potential nominations. Bailey and Broome are standout players for their respective teams, consistently delivering exceptional performances, while Watkins’s impressive play has made her a favorite for this year’s Wooden Award.

“Every year, it’s exciting to see new talents emerging,” said an Atlanta Tipoff Club representative. “The level of competition gets tougher, and this year is no different.”

The current award season has seen intense rivalries play out, paralleling the excitement of March Madness. Events like the upcoming March Madness Music Festival, running from April 4 to 6, 2025, in downtown San Antonio, enhance the atmosphere around the tournament with performances from popular artists. This year’s lineup includes renowned names such as Pitbull, Chris Stapleton, and T-Pain.

As the awards season unfolds, all eyes are set on the Naismith Trophy contenders. With performances crucial to their teams’ success, these players are not just vying for individual accolades but also contributing to their institutions’ legacies in the NCAA.