Big 12 Weekly Awards Recap

Identifying the Conference Standouts 

The Big 12 season never fails to deliver drama. As teams jockey for position, individual performances often tip the scales. The latest slate of weekly awards highlights two players who simply took over when it mattered most. 

Therefore, keeping an eye on these accolades is essential for understanding the conference hierarchy. It seems that early momentum can define a team’s trajectory. These awards signal which athletes are ready to carry their squads through the gauntlet of league play. 

Watts Sparks Texas Tech 

LeJuan Watts earned the Big 12 Player of the Week nod on December 22. His production has been a revelation for the Red Raiders. In fact, his recent form suggests he is becoming a primary option for the offense. 

Watts averaged 20.5 points per game during a crucial stretch, highlighted by a massive performance against Duke. He delivered consistent scoring just when Texas Tech needed a lift. His efficiency from the field kept the Red Raiders in control against elite competition. 

Fans who follow these statistical surges often check https://www.actionnetwork.com for deeper insights into player trends. Data like this helps clarify just how impactful a player has been relative to the rest of the country. To be sure, Watts earned this recognition by delivering in high-pressure moments rather than padding stats in blowouts. 

Crooks Puts the League on Notice 

On the women’s side, Iowa State has a bona fide star in Audi Crooks. She captured national headlines on December 23 with a performance for the history books. The USBWA honored her efforts after she dismantled the opposition in her Big 12 opener. 

Crooks poured in 41 points to lead the Cyclones to a statement victory. She dominated the paint and seemingly scored at will. Moreover, her presence on the glass gave Iowa State plenty of second-chance opportunities. 

Especially in a conference opener, a 40-point outing sends a clear message to the rest of the league. Her teammates fed off that energy, trusting her to make the right plays. This kind of dominance typically forces future opponents to completely alter their defensive game plans. 

The Stat Sheet 

Raw numbers often tell the best story. The following breakdown shows exactly why these two players separated themselves from the pack: 

• LeJuan Watts: 20.5 points per game and clutch scoring in a marquee win over Duke. 

• Audi Crooks: A staggering 41 points in her conference debut, plus USBWA national honors. 

• Both Players: Directly responsible for wins in high-stakes environments. 

Big 12 Implications 

These awards do more than just fill a trophy case. They alter how opponents prepare for Texas Tech and Iowa State moving forward. Coaches across the league now have to game plan specifically to stop Watts and Crooks. 

Still, the Big 12 is unforgiving. One great week does not guarantee a title. However, these performances prove that both athletes have the skill set to thrive in big moments. 

Due to their breakouts, the Red Raiders and Cyclones look more dangerous than they did a week ago. It creates a fascinating dynamic as the conference race begins to tighten.