Share and Follow
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WCIA) – Illinois freshman phenom Keaton Wagler has once again demonstrated his exceptional talent, adding another prestigious national accolade to his burgeoning list of achievements this past Saturday.
Just before the Illinois team faced off against UConn in the Final Four, Wagler was honored with the Jerry West Shooting Guard of the Year Award. This recognition underscores his standout performance as a key player for the Illini.
Heading into the national semifinal showdown with the Huskies, Wagler boasts an impressive average of 17.9 points per game. His remarkable season has also earned him Consensus All-American honors, cementing his status as one of the top players in college basketball.
Wagler’s accomplishment marks a historic moment for the Illinois basketball program. He is the first player from the school to receive the West Award and the first to win a national position award since Ayo Dosunmu secured the Bob Cousy Award for National Point Guard of the Year in 2021.
Additionally, Wagler’s stellar performances in the NCAA Tournament earned him the title of South Region Most Outstanding Player, following Illinois’s journey to securing a spot in the Final Four.
The Selection Committees for the Jerry West Award is made up of top men’s college basketball personnel including media members, head coaches, sports information directors, and Hall of Famers.