It took a little while for UNC star center Armando Bacot to get going, but he’s now starting to again play like one of the country’s best big men.
In the Tar Heels’ last four games – all wins, Bacot has scored in double-digits. He has a double-double in UNC’s past two – 16 points and 10 rebounds at Pitt on Jan. 2, then 14 points and 16 rebounds at Clemson on Saturday.
Bacot is averaging a double-double and a huge part of Carolina’s offense. He’s shooting pretty well from the charity stripe and looks a lot more aggressive in the paint.
As a result of his recent hot streak, Bacot finds himself an award-winner. This time, it’s Naismith Trophy Player of the Week.
Armando Bacot named @NaismithTrophy Player of the Week 😤 pic.twitter.com/m4KKpreIzm
— Carolina Basketball (@UNC_Basketball) January 10, 2024
The Naismith Trophy is annually awarded to the best player in college basketball. Purdue tower Zach Edey was the men’s winner last year, while Iowa superstar Caitlin Clark was the women’s winner.
If Bacot’s in serious consideration for the Naismith trophy, UNC teammate R.J. Davis is further up that list. Davis is averaging just over 20 points per game, scoring in double-digits 11 times and dropping a season-high 30 against Arkansas.
Bacot can add to his Naismith Trophy consideration with a strong game against N.C. State this week. Bacot will have a tough time down low against the Wolfpack (11-3, 3-0), as the explosive D.J. Burns will be guarding him.
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