The National Awards Committee and Small College Basketball have unveiled the Bevo Francis Top 100 Watch List for the 2024-25 season. After three months into the basketball season, this list showcases some of the most talented players from NCAA Division II, III, NAIA, USCAA, and NCCAA. John McCarthy, founder of Small College Basketball, congratulated the nominees, highlighting the significance of being one of the 100 chosen from around 13,000 to 16,000 players. The selection criteria emphasized team success alongside individual achievements.

Selecting the Finest: Criteria and Timeline

The Bevo Francis Award honors the player with the finest overall season in small college basketball. Established eight years ago, it evaluates a player's statistics, accolades, character, and team performance. Past recipients include standout athletes like Dominez Burnett, Justin Pitts, and Elijah Malone. The nomination process involves narrowing down the list from 100 to 50 by February 15, then to 25 by March 15, before announcing finalists on April 5 and the winner on April 7.

To be considered for this prestigious award, players must demonstrate exceptional skill, leadership, and sportsmanship throughout the season. The committee carefully examines each nominee's contributions both on and off the court. This rigorous selection process ensures that only the most deserving athletes are recognized. Team success plays a crucial role in the evaluation, as it reflects the player's ability to lead and inspire their teammates. The timeline for the award's announcement underscores the importance of consistent performance over the entire season.

Showcasing Talent: Notable Nominees

The Bevo Francis Top 100 Watch List features an array of remarkable athletes representing various institutions across different divisions. These players have distinguished themselves through outstanding performances and leadership qualities. From seniors like Tray Alexander and Nate Amado to freshmen like Elyjah Freeman, the list includes a diverse range of talent. Each player brings unique skills and experiences to their respective teams, contributing significantly to their successes.

Among the notable nominees are senior guards such as Jadin Booth from Florida Southern and Jamir Billings from Wooster, who have been instrumental in leading their teams to victories. Sophomores like Wes Enis from Lincoln Memorial and Jaquias Franklin from Georgetown showcase the emergence of younger talent ready to make their mark. The inclusion of players from schools like Pace, Babson, and Washburn highlights the depth of talent across small college basketball. The diversity in height, position, and experience levels adds richness to the competition, making this year's watch list particularly exciting.