:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/58899183/usa_today_10553894.0.jpg)
The BIG EAST announced its men’s basketball all-conference teams this afternoon, with three Wildcats receiving All-Big East recognition for their play this season.
Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges were given All-Big East First Team honors, while teammate Omari Spellman landed on the All-Freshman team.
Brunson, an unanimous pick for first team considerations, led the Wildcats with a team-high 19.0 points per game and 4.8 assists per game. He knocked down 52.8 percent of his shots on the floor, while boasting an impressive 40.5 three-point shooting percentage.
His fellow All-Big East First Teamer, Bridges, was known for his menacing defense coming into this season, but he took a big step up on the other side of the court. He was right behind Brunson, averaging 17.6 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals. He shot 51.1 percent overall and 42.0 percent from long range.
Meanwhile, Spellman played his first full season with the ‘Cats, after being forced to redshirt last season by NCAA decision. Spellman took the reins at center and proved to also be an asset at the perimeter. This season, he averaged 10.9 points and 7.8 boards. Spellman shot just over 52 percent inside the arc, and 43.6 from outside.
Here are is a listing of all-conference honors. Major awards, such as Big East Player of the Year and other individual accolades will be given out on Wednesday, March 7.
All-Big East First Team
Kelan Martin, Butler*
Marcus Foster, Creighton
Shamorie Ponds, St. John’s
Mikal Bridges, Villanova
Jalen Brunson, Villanova*
Trevon Bluiett, Xavier*
All-Big East Second Team
Khyri Thomas, Creighton
Marcus Derrickson, Georgetown
Markus Howard, Marquette
Angel Delgado, Seton Hall
Desi Rodriguez, Seton Hall
All-Big East Honorable Mention
Andrew Rowsey, Marquette
Kyron Cartwright, Providence
Big East All Freshman Team
Mitchell Ballock, Creighton
Jamorko Pickett, Georgetown*
Jahvon Blair, Georgetown
Nate Watson, Providence
Omari Spellman, Villanova*
Naji Marshall, Xavier*
(Asterisks signify unanimous selections.)