CBB Review hands out awards for each conference tournament in 2024. Up next: The SoCon Tournament.
CBB Review SoCon Tournament Most Outstanding Player
Achor Achor, Samford
Samford’s best player all season put the team on his back in the SoCon Tournament, going for 25 points on just nine shots in the championship game. Achor also had a ridiculous 28 point / 14 rebound outing against Furman. His presence on defense was felt all tournament with nine total blocks.
Achor can do a little bit of everything as a forward who plays with a burst of athleticism. The competition level is always high in the SoCon, but Achor really looked like the best player throughout.
Round of 32
The SoCon automatic bid always seems to be a popular upset pick and Samford is as good as any of the recent winners.
With Achor, Samford will automatically have a matchup nightmare, or at the very least, a player that few teams can truly shut down. Rylan Jones will be the key. When he’s playmaking, Samford is an elite mid-major. And when Samford’s on, they’re on, averaging the fifth most points in the country (86.0 PPG). Depending on their draw, I’d expect a good showing. I’m not calling upset, but I am saying it’s very possible.
It’s also worth nothing the Bulldogs are 8th in the NCAA in 3P% and steals per game. This team plays both sides of the ball and won’t go down without a fight against any team.
