NCAA Basketball: Ranking the 10 finalists for 2020-21 Karl Malone Award

Jan 23, 2021; Spokane, Washington, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Drew Timme (2) brings the ball down court during a game against the Pacific Tigers in the first half of a WCC men’s basketball game at McCarthey Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /

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NCAA Basketball Trendon Watford LSU Tigers (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

6. SO Tre Mitchell – UMass Minutemen

2020-21 stats: 20.0 ppg 7.4 rpg 2.2 apg

Although there have been only nine games to showcase, the former Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year is putting up the monster stats many expected in the preseason. Mitchell has put up double figures in each contest, including a career-high 37 points on 13/17 shooting in a win over La Salle.

Mitchell also has led the Minutemen to a very respectful 4-2 record in league play. They’re going to have to win the conference tournament to go dancing but led by the star forward, UMass is a dangerous team that high seeds wouldn’t want to get matched up with.

5. SO Trendon Watford – LSU Tigers

2020-21 stats: 18.3 ppg 7.4 rpg 3.6 apg

Star freshman Cameron Thomas has taken a lot of the shine for the Tigers this season. But don’t overlook what the sophomore Watford has done, second on the team in the three main categories. The 6’9 forward has been in double figures in all but one matchup, while going for 20+ in four of the last six games. That includes a season-high 26 points and 10 rebounds in a loss to Kentucky.

Watford is shooting 51% from the field and 38% from three-point range, showcasing an improved overall game that should get him to the first round of the NBA Draft. LSU is having a solid season overall but will need to compete with Alabama at the top of the SEC to give Watford an even bigger platform to get this award.

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