Maryland sophomore forward Jalen Smith is one of 10 finalists for the Naismith Men’s College Player of the Year Trophy, given to the top player in college basketball.
Smith also was named Thursday a top-five finalist for the Karl Malone Award, given to the nation’s top power forward.
Entering Sunday’s regular-season finale against No. 25 Michigan at home, Smith is averaging 15.4 points, 10.5 rebounds and 2.3 blocks. Smith, a Mount Saint Joseph graduate, has recorded 20 double doubles this season, which is tied for third in the nation.
The winner of the Naismith Award will be announced April 5.
Smith is joined on the semifinalists list by Udoka Azubuike (Kansas), Vernon Carey Jr. (Duke), Devon Dotson (Kansas), Malachi Flynn (San Diego State), Luka Garza (Iowa), Markus Howard (Marquette), Myles Powell (Seton Hall), Payton Pritchard (Oregon) and Obi Toppin (Dayton).
Other finalists for the Karl Malone Award include Toppin, Killian Tillie (Gonzaga), Reggie Perry (Mississippi State) and Yoeli Childs (BYU).
NO. 25 MICHIGAN@NO. 9 MARYLAND
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