Caleb McConnell entered the season as the reigning Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year but had bigger aspirations.
McConnell has been named to the Naismith Defensive Player of the Year watchlist for 2023. The list is condensed to the top 15 defenders in the nation and McConnell is apart of the group.
“It’s an honor to be named to Naismith Defensive Player of the Year Watchlist along with some of the greatest defenders in college basketball,” McConnell said. “My defense is something I take extreme pride and effort in, and I appreciate the recognition.