With just a handful of games left in the conference season, it’s time to look at our predictions for the SEC Postseason Awards.
Player of the Year: Ben Simmons, LSU Tigers
He’s been the most dominant player in the conference, sitting in the conference’s top five rankings for points, rebounds, steals, and field goal percentage. Simmons has taken over the stat sheet like no one else this season, his Tigers just need to keep pace in the rankings for him to have a chance at any awards.
Coach of the Year: Frank Martin, South Carolina Gamecocks
We all thought this could be the season that South Carolina finally took a step forward under Martin and they’ve followed through. He hasn’t had a Michael Beasley to facilitate a quick turnaround, but the payoff is here.
Defensive Player of the Year: Ben Simmons, LSU Tigers
Top five in rebounds and steals while also registering at least one block per game, Simmons is the only player in the conference that has really separated themselves in regard to this award. It isn’t sexy, but it’s true.
Most Improved Player: Michael Carrera, South Carolina Gamecocks
No one in the conference has improved from last year, or the beginning of their career, more than Carrera. After seeing his playing time and production actually dip as a sophomore and junior, he’s come back better than ever while helping lead South Carolina towards the NCAA Tournament.
Freshman of the Year: Ben Simmons, LSU Tigers
I know, it’s unfair. But it’s also true and not really close if we’re going to be honest about it. He’s the best freshman in the country thus far and although he’s a lock to win this award, he’s also a lock to win the national one as well.
