Johnni Broome Awards Discussion

quote:

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Between Naismith Award and Wooden Award, which is most prestigious?

If they split the awards, would one be considered a “win” over the other one?

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I asked Grok.
"Both the Naismith Award and the Wooden Award are highly prestigious honors in college basketball, recognizing the top player in the sport each year. However, the Wooden Award is generally considered slightly more prestigious due to its broader recognition, historical significance, and the legacy tied to John Wooden, one of the most iconic figures in basketball history.
Here’s a breakdown:
Naismith College Player of the Year: Established in 1969, this award is named after Dr. James Naismith, the inventor of basketball. It’s presented by the Atlanta Tipoff Club and is one of the oldest and most respected awards in the sport. It’s voted on by a mix of coaches, media, and fans.

John R. Wooden Award: Introduced in 1976, this award honors the legendary UCLA coach John Wooden and is presented by the Los Angeles Athletic Club. It’s voted on by a large panel of media members and former players, and it often carries a certain mystique because of Wooden’s unparalleled success (10 NCAA championships). The Wooden Award also has a reputation for emphasizing not just performance but also character, aligning with Wooden’s values.

In practice, the two awards often go to the same player in a given year (e.g., Caitlin Clark won both in 2023 for the women’s side, and Zach Edey did the same for the men’s in 2023). When they differ, it’s usually a close call, but the Wooden Award tends to get a slight edge in public perception and media attention.
That said, prestige can be subjective—some might argue the Naismith’s longer history gives it an edge. If you’re looking at pure basketball culture clout, though, the Wooden Award probably takes the crown. What do you think—any specific players or years you’re curious about?"