University of Houston's Jamal Shead has been named a finalist for the Jersey Mike's Naismith Player of the Year, adding to his recognition as a Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Finalist. Shead, along with three other student-athletes, is contending for the most outstanding player in college basketball.

The Big Picture

Shead's nomination recognizes his exceptional performance and leadership as the Cougars posted a 32-4 record and won the Big 12 regular-season championship in their first year in the league.

By the Numbers
  • Shead recorded 13.1 points per game, leading the team with 6.2 assists per game, 2.3 steals per game, and a 3.15 assist-turnover ratio.
  • The Cougars lead the nation in scoring defense (57.0 ppg), turnover margin (7.1), and field goal percentage defense (37.9%), while ranking among the Top 10 in turnovers per game (8.9) and steals per game (10.0).
State of Play
  • Houston's current record stands at 32-4 with a Big 12 regular-season championship.
  • The team has been ranked among the Top-Seven leaders in national polls and has held 22 opponents to 60 or fewer points.
What's Next

Shead and the Cougars will meet Duke in the NCAA Tournament South Region Sweet 16 at 8:35 p.m. on Friday, airing on CBS.

Bottom Line

Jamal Shead's recognition as a Naismith Player of the Year Finalist underscores his exceptional contributions to the Cougars' success, setting the stage for an exciting showdown with Duke in the NCAA Tournament.