Texas Longhorns Basketball: Greg Brown III named to Naismith Trophy watchlist

The Naismith Trophy announced their preseason watchlist, with Greg Brown making the cut. In total, 50 players appeared on the list.

When Greg Brown III signed his letter of intent with the Longhorns, he ranked as the sixth highest-rated recruit to ever attend Texas according to the 247Sports composite. Not only does he have the chance to shine as one of the top players in the Big 12 but as one of the best in the country.

The Naismith Trophy announced their preseason watchlist on Thursday, with Brown making the cut. In total, 50 players appeared on the list. Five other Big 12 players also made the list, including star freshman point guard Cade Cunningham from Oklahoma State.

Here is the rest of the conference players on the watchlist:

  • Jared Butler, Baylor
  • Marcus Garrett, Kansas
  • MaCio Teague, Baylor
  • Oscar Tshiebwe, West Virginia

In the press release, the Naismith Trophy explains how the selection process for the award will work throughout the season.

A list of the midseason 30 team will be released in early February, followed by the 10 national semifinalists and four finalists on March 4, 2021, and March 16, 2021, respectively. Players who do not make the watch list are still eligible to be selected for the midseason 30 team. The 2021 Jersey Mike’s Naismith Trophy will be awarded during the Final Four at the Naismith Awards Brunch on April 4, 2021.

For Brown, he is expected to be a star right away for head coach Shaka Smart. When he takes the court, Brown is expected to instantly be the most athletic player out there. Size, speed, and strength will fit in perfectly with Smart’s system.

Anything less than an NCAA Tournament appearance and a first-round win will be considered a disappointment for the Longhorns. After being so close to making the tournament last season, Brown will elevate Texas to those new goals.

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