In a year where college basketball has been filled with standout performances and breakout stars, few have managed to dominate headlines and hardwood quite like South Carolina’s Collin Murray. The electric Gamecocks guard has not only been the heartbeat of his team, but he’s also now carved his name into the national spotlight by securing two of the sport’s most prestigious honors: the 2025 Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award.
Winning just one of these accolades would be a career-defining moment for most athletes, but Murray’s ability to earn both in the same season speaks volumes about his talent, leadership, and unwavering dedication. It’s a testament to a player who’s not just having a great season—but one for the ages.
Murray’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. While South Carolina came into the 2024–25 season with promise, few could have predicted that it would be their 6’3″ floor general who would lead the national charge. Game after game, Murray delivered stunning performances that left fans in awe and opponents scrambling. From clutch three-pointers to dazzling assists, his playstyle has embodied a rare mix of flash and fundamental, earning him praise from coaches, analysts, and former greats alike.
The Bob Cousy Award, given annually to the top point guard in college basketball, has a legacy steeped in excellence. Named after the legendary Boston Celtics guard who revolutionized the position, the award recognizes not only statistical brilliance but also leadership, consistency, and a high basketball IQ. Murray checked every box. Over the course of the season, he has averaged 19.2 points, 7.4 assists, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game—all while maintaining an impressive shooting clip and guiding the Gamecocks to national prominence.
But numbers alone don’t capture the full picture. What set Murray apart was his poise under pressure. In high-stakes matchups—whether it was a buzzer-beater against Kentucky or a 30-point night to topple a top-five Tennessee team—he repeatedly proved why he’s the most trusted player on the court. His ability to elevate his game in crucial moments mirrored that of some of the greatest point guards in NCAA history.
Equally impressive is his recognition with the Midseason Wooden Award, which places him among the frontrunners for the prestigious end-of-season honor that recognizes the best player in all of college basketball. While the final Wooden Award winner will be named later in the season, earning the midseason nod places Murray in elite company and solidifies his status as one of the game’s truly transcendent talents.
Named after UCLA legend John Wooden, the Wooden Award is synonymous with not just on-court excellence but also character, academic standing, and contributions to team success. Murray’s impact stretches far beyond the stat sheet. His commitment to his teammates, his leadership in the locker room, and his tireless work ethic have transformed the South Carolina program. What was once considered a rebuilding team is now firmly in the national conversation for a deep March Madness run, and Murray is at the center of it all.
Head coach Lamont Paris has frequently spoken about Murray’s maturity and focus, often praising him as a “coach on the floor.” In a recent interview, Paris said, “Collin is one of the smartest players I’ve ever coached. He sees things two steps ahead, and he’s always thinking about how to make his teammates better. His success is no accident—it’s the result of hours in the gym, studying film, and leading by example.”
For fans of South Carolina basketball, Murray’s breakout season has been a revelation. The energy in Colonial Life Arena has never been higher, with sellout crowds now the norm and Gamecock faithful chanting his name long before tip-off. Jerseys bearing his number fly off the shelves, and young fans line up after games hoping for an autograph or selfie with the man who’s quickly becoming a school legend.
But perhaps what makes Collin Murray’s success even more compelling is his journey. He wasn’t always the most highly touted recruit. Coming out of high school, he had to work for every minute of playing time, every ounce of respect. He redshirted his first year, improved steadily in his sophomore season, and then exploded into stardom during his junior campaign. His story is one of perseverance, patience, and purpose—a modern-day blueprint for how grit and determination can pay off in the long run.
Off the court, Murray is known for his humility and generosity. He’s often seen mentoring younger players, volunteering in local community programs, and emphasizing the importance of education and character. Teammates rave about his leadership, and coaches across the SEC often note how rare it is to find a player with such a complete package of skill, selflessness, and spirit.
His historic dual-award achievement will go down as a defining moment for the 2025 college basketball season. Few players manage to dominate individually while also uplifting an entire program, but Murray has done just that. And he’s not done yet.
With the NCAA Tournament fast approaching, the national spotlight will only intensify. South Carolina, now projected as a top seed, is preparing for a postseason run unlike any in recent memory. Expectations are sky-high, and the pressure will be immense—but if anyone has shown they can rise to the occasion, it’s Collin Murray.
Scouts and NBA executives have taken notice as well. His name has steadily risen on draft boards, with analysts projecting him as a potential lottery pick. While Murray hasn’t made any declarations about his future beyond this season, there’s no denying that his game translates well to the next level. He has the court vision, the composure, and the competitive fire to make an impact wherever he goes.
Still, when asked about his accolades, Murray remains grounded. “I’m honored, truly,” he said after receiving the Bob Cousy Award. “But this isn’t just about me. It’s about my teammates, my coaches, my family, and everyone who believed in me when nobody else did. We’ve got bigger goals ahead, and I’m focused on bringing something special home to South Carolina.”
That humility is part of what makes Murray’s story so compelling. He’s a superstar who hasn’t forgotten his roots, a leader who lifts others as he rises, and a young man who plays the game the right way—hard, smart, and with heart.
As the regular season winds down and March Madness looms, the basketball world will be watching to see how this next chapter unfolds. But no matter what happens, Collin Murray’s place in college basketball history is already secure. He’s a record-breaker, a trend-setter, and a once-in-a-generation talent who’s left an indelible mark on the game.
From overlooked recruit to national sensation, from role player to award-winner, Collin Murray’s journey has been defined by growth, grit, and greatness. And now, with the 2025 Bob Cousy Award and Midseason Wooden Award to his name, he stands as a living example of what happens when passion meets preparation—and when belief turns into brilliance.
