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2025-26 Wooden Award Watch List Unveiled: Top Players Shine

1/9/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Los Angeles Athletic Club revealed the 2025-26 Women's Top 25 Midseason Watch List for the John R. Wooden Award.
Notable selections include Tennessee's Janiah Barker, who averages 14.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, and Tennessee's Talaysia Cooper, who averages 14.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.
The award marks its 50th year, with winners announced on April 10, 2026.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1976, the John R. Wooden Award honors outstanding college basketball players, reflecting the sport's evolution. Named after legendary UCLA coach John Wooden, who led his teams to ten NCAA championships, the award expanded to include women's players in 2004. The 50th anniversary celebrates athletes like Janiah Barker and Talaysia Cooper, highlighting the growing visibility and impact of women's basketball in collegiate sports.

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Story summary

The Los Angeles Athletic Club revealed the 2025-26 Women's Top 25 Midseason Watch List for the John R. Wooden Award.
Notable selections include Tennessee's Janiah Barker, who averages 14.4 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, and Tennessee's Talaysia Cooper, who averages 14.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.
The award marks its 50th year, with winners announced on April 10, 2026.

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