He wasn't the center of attention in the NCAA Finals, or even a particularly anticipated prospect in his early days. However, it was Tristen Newton who was voted best player of the NCAA Final Four on Monday, after winning a second title with Connecticut. The playmaker was remarkable in this match for the double, confirming his good season. Zach Edey, once again statistically monstrous, pays for the defeat of his Purdue team, and will not succeed Akeem Olajuwon, the last MOP beaten for the title in 1983.
With 20 points, 5 rebounds and 7 assists, Tristen Newton was the main initiator of the Huskies' attack, and finished as his team's top scorer. If he does not dazzle with his athleticism or speed, the senior controlled the pace perfectly. Aggressive when Uconn needed it, he was especially decisive by not losing a single ball in the match, despite his 39 minutes spent on the floor. “ I was okay today » he showed himself teasingly, smile on the lips on the floor. “ I took a few shots and managed to get my teammates involved. I'm just trying to do what I can to win and get us to lift this trophy. »
Best leader of the season
A winner is perhaps what best sums up what kind of player Tristen Newton is. Without being dazzling in any particular sector of the game, the 22-year-old (he will be 23 on April 26) has established himself as one of the most complete backs in the NCAA with Connecticut. To the point of obtaining the nickname “Mr Triple-Double” among the Huskies, for which he holds the historic record with his four three-dimensional matches. His 14.9 points, 6.6 rebounds and 6.2 assists this season propelled him into the NCAA top five, also winning the Bob Cousy Award for best point guard of the year.
Tristen Newton, however, was not one of the most highlighted players of the vintage, after his first three years spent with the East Carolina Pirates. Transferred in 2022 to Connecticut, he has become an essential pawn of coach Dan Hurley. “ These last two years have been incredible » he exclaimed. “ You know, Uconn kind of saved my life. It's the best decision I've made in my life. I am grateful to them. »
Great game for Tristen Newton helping UConn win the national championship with 20 points, 7 assists, 0 turnovers. Executed UConn's game plan perfectly, getting the ball where it needs to be, and made big shots all night, showing his scoring instincts and versatility. pic.twitter.com/f42JRezde6
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 9, 2024
However, its future still remains uncertain. Having reached the end of his university course, he was until now only mentioned in the second round of the next Draft, mainly due to his age. But his performance during March Madness and his new status as MOP could increase his rating, especially since the 2024 opus is not overflowing with freshmen who have shone. Like Jaime Jaquez Jr, or Keon Ellis, his secure and NBA-ready profile could offer him opportunities, more than guarantees. Best player of the Final Four last year after the coronation of Connecticut, the Malian Adama Sanogo spent most of his time in the G-League this season, as part of his “two-way contract” with the Bulls, to six short matches with Chicago.
