Ryan Arcidiacono opens the season on the Bob Cousy Watchlist

Villanova Wildcats junior Ryan Arcidiacono has two tremendous seasons for Villanova, and more than a few people took notice. Among them was the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, which awards the Bob Cousy Award annually to the best Collegiate Point Guard -- and Arch is on the preseason watchlist for 2015. The watchlist itself is compiled by a committee of media members and influencers within the college basketball community.

"This list represents some of the top student athletes from across the country. We are truly honored to be a part of this award," said John L. Doleva, President and CEO of the Basketball Hall of Fame. He added, "This year’s list showcases student athletes that have all of the intangibles that would make them great candidates for this prestigious award."

The list of 36 names will be cut down to 20 candidates in early February and down to a final five by early March. Players can be both added or removed from the watchlist in the interim.

A selection committee appointed by the Hall of Fame, reviews each candidate in contention. That committee is made up of college basketball professionals, including media, head coaches, media relations contacts and Hall of Famers.

"The Bob Cousy Award promotes the values of leadership, determination, and teamwork, all skills needed not only on the hardwood but also in life," said Ken Kaufman, Chair of the Bob Cousy Award and former president of the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC). "Mr. Cousy exemplified all of these traits, and continues to be an inspiration to basketball players on and off the court."

Shabazz Napier from Connecticut was the 2014 winner of the award.

2015 Bob Cousy Award Candidates