Breaking News: Georgia’s Asa Newell Named Among Top-10 Candidates for 2025 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award

February 7, 2025 – The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame made a splash on Friday, announcing that Georgia’s rising star, Asa Newell, has been selected as one of the top-10 candidates for the prestigious 2025 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award. This honor is bestowed annually to the nation’s best center in Division I men’s basketball, highlighting the most outstanding players in the center position.

Newell, a sophomore for the University of Georgia, has been turning heads with his exceptional skills on both ends of the floor. His combination of size, athleticism, and basketball IQ has made him one of the most formidable centers in college basketball this season. At 6’10”, Newell has emerged as a dominant force in the paint, standing out not only for his rebounding and shot-blocking abilities but also for his offensive versatility, which mirrors the skills of the NBA legend the award is named after.

The Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award, named after the NBA’s all-time leading scorer and a Hall of Fame legend, is one of the most coveted individual honors in college basketball. It recognizes the best player in the center position, an essential role that continues to evolve in the modern game. While Jabbar was known for his unstoppable skyhook, Newell’s game reflects a more modern style with a mix of finesse and strength, an ability to stretch the floor, and the instincts to alter the course of games on both ends of the court.

Newell’s performance has been a driving force behind Georgia’s success this season. His strong rebounding, shot-blocking, and finishing around the rim have been key components of his team’s offensive and defensive schemes. Newell is currently averaging 14.2 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game. He is also known for his leadership qualities, mentoring younger players and setting a tone of competitiveness and hard work in the locker room.

The Naismith Hall of Fame’s list of top-10 candidates features several high-profile names, but Newell’s inclusion is a testament to his rapid rise in the college basketball ranks. His early success is the culmination of years of hard work and development, both on and off the court. Newell’s journey began at the prep level, where he was a highly-touted recruit, and his transition to the college game has been nothing short of seamless. His ability to impact the game in multiple areas has made him a favorite among scouts and analysts alike.

As one of the leading candidates for the award, Newell faces stiff competition from other elite centers in the nation. However, his performance thus far has made it clear that he is among the best at his position. His ability to both protect the rim and finish offensively with skill and efficiency sets him apart as one of the premier centers in college basketball today.

The winner of the 2025 Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award will be announced at the Naismith College Basketball Awards ceremony in April. For now, Asa Newell’s place among the top-10 finalists is a testament to his exceptional season and his bright future in the world of basketball. With the continued momentum from his stellar performances, it’s clear that the Georgia center will be a name to watch for years to come.

As the 2025 NCAA tournament approaches, Newell’s play will undoubtedly continue to garner national attention, and the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Award could very well be the first of many accolades he earns in his basketball career.