IRVING, Texas – Kansas freshman Ben McLemore has been named the Phillips 66 Big 12 Men’s Rookie of the Week before the Christmas holiday in a vote of a media panel which covers the conference. McLemore is recognized for the honor for the first time in his career.
McLemore averaged 18.0 points and 6.5 rebounds as the Jayhawks defeated Richmond (87-59) and won at No. 7 Ohio State (74-66). The St. Louis, Mo., guard started with 14 points on 5-of-9 shooting versus the Spiders to go along with seven rebounds. He answered that with a team-high 22 points and six rebounds in KU’s win in Columbus, Ohio. He shot 50 percent (13-of-26) for the week, including 55.6 percent (5-of-9) from three-point range.
McLemore leads Kansas and all Big 12 freshmen in scoring with 16.5 points per game, including four 20-point performances. His 16.5 ppg ranks second overall in the conference.
This marks the 23rd time in the 17-year history of the Big 12 that at Kansas player has been named Big 12 Rookie of the Week. Rookie of the week recognition goes to first-year players in the conference.
