Villanova once again left no doubt that they are indeed the kings of this city when it comes to college basketball after making the Big Five Awards theirs.
Villanova received three major Big Five awards Tuesday, with senior Josh Hart being named player of the year, Donte DiVincenzo earning rookie of the year and Jay Wright taking coach of the year honors.
First TeamHart, a first-team All-America and the Big East player of the year, averaged 18.7 points in helping the Wildcats win their fourth consecutive Big 5 title.
B.J. Johnson, La Salle
Shizz Alston, Jr., Temple
Jalen Brunson, Villanova
Josh Hart, Villanova
Kris Jenkins, Villanova
Second Team
Jordan Price, La Salle
Mikal Bridges, Villanova
AJ Brodeur, Penn
James Demery, Saint Joseph’s
Obi Enechionyia, Temple
Matt Howard, Penn
DiVincenzo, a redshirt freshman, averaged 8.8 points during the season while upping his output during the postseason, averaging 15 points and 7.4 rebounds.
Wright led the Wildcats to a 32-4 record and their 12th NCAA appearance in the last 13 years. The team was ranked No. 1 in the Associated Press poll for eight weeks.
The award winners will be honored Monday night at the Big Five banquet at the Palestra.
-- ThaCover2
