POLISH THE HARDWARE
Big 12 coaches pick Houston guard as player of year and top defender
Mar 11, 2024, 9:13 am
Jamal Shead is taking home some hardware. Photo by Ron Jenkins/Getty Images.
Houston senior point guard Jamal Shead was voted by Big 12 coaches as the conference's player of the year after helping lead the top-ranked Cougars to the regular-season title in their inaugural season in the league.
Shead, also tabbed as the top defensive player, was the only unanimous pick on the first team announced Sunday. He goes into the postseason averaging 13.2 points, 6.2 assists and 2.3 steals.
The other first-team picks were Kansas senior center Hunter Dickinson, the Michigan transfer who was also newcomer of the year, along with Iowa State sophomore guard Tamin Lipsey, Kansas guard Kevin McCullar Jr. and Texas forward Dylan Disu.
Kelvin Sampson of the Cougars (28-3) was named by his Big 12 peers as coach of the year.
Baylor guard Ja'Kobe Walter was picked as freshman of the year.
The Associated Press will release its All-Big 12 teams and individual awards Tuesday.
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Astros deliver perfect answer to Thursday night’s gut punch
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As the Houston Texans gear up for the 2025 season, all eyes are on OTAs, where key storylines and position battles are already taking shape. One of the most intriguing developments is unfolding along the offensive line. Coaches are clearly keeping their options open, and the answers may not be as obvious as they seem.
Meanwhile, fans are taking notice of Cam Robinson holding down the left tackle spot, while Tytus Howard has been moved inside to right guard — a significant shift that raises questions about long-term strategy and player fit. The reshuffling up front is just one part of a larger evaluation process underway.
Further down the roster, the wide receiver room is heating up with fierce competition for the final spots. Several fringe players are turning heads, looking to carve out a role behind the established starters. These battles could stretch well into training camp.
On the other side of the ball, expectations are high for the defense entering Year 3 under head coach DeMeco Ryans. After a strong showing last season, the unit is now being challenged to take the next leap. At the heart of that effort is Will Anderson Jr., who looks poised for a breakout year. His growth could be a game-changer for the Texans' pass rush.
From offensive line shakeups to rising defensive expectations, there’s no shortage of drama or development in Houston. With the 2025 season approaching, these OTAs are offering a crucial glimpse into what this team might become.
Be sure to watch the video below as ESPN Houston's Jeremy Branham and Joel Blank share their thoughts on the early developments at OTAs.
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