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Player of the Week

Thomas Robinson, Kansas

The junior is continuing his dominating season. It’s safe to say that nobody in America can stop the man-child. This week, he had another set of dominating contests against Big 12 opponents. In an 11 point victory over the Oklahoma Sooners, the 6’9" power forward scored 18 points and grabbed nine rebounds for the Jayhawks. Against the Texas Tech Red Raiders on Wednesday, he erupted for 19 points and 12 rebounds while shooting 8-11 for a blistering 72% from the field. As it stands, he is the leading candidate for the James Naismith National Player of the Year award. He is averaging 17.6 points and 12.1 rebounds per game.

Who’s Hot

Pierre Jackson, Baylor – The Baylor Bears are rolling through their schedule. They aren’t winning pretty, but they are winning, and that’s all that matters. One of the main reasons for their undefeated season so far is 2011 Junior College All-American Pierre Jackson. The 5’10" point guard doesn’t start for the Bears, that distinction goes to A.J. Walton, but he is always in the game when it matters. He has incredible athleticism for a point guard, reminding some of NBA player Nate Robinson. Last Saturday, in a win over Texas Tech, he filled the stat sheet with a line of 19 points, seven assists, six rebounds, and three steals. Then, in a showdown with Kansas State, he helped the Bears stay undefeated by compiling 10 points, 11 assists, five rebounds, and two steals. The Las Vegas native is having a sensational junior season.

Honorable Mention

Royce White, Iowa State – 10 points, 18 rebounds, and 10 assists in a 74-50 blowout of Texas A&M.

Who’s Cold

Steven Pledger, Oklahoma – 9 points on 3-13 shooting from the field, and 3 assists before fouling out against Oklahoma State.

Top 5: 6th Men in the Big 12 Conference

1. Pierre Jackson, Baylor –

 The exciting floor general is having a special season for the Baylor Bears. Their NCAA tournament hopes hinge on steady play from their floor generals. So far, so good for the team. He is averaging 11.9 points, 4.9 assists, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.8 steals a game.

2. Michael Dixon, Missouri –

 The 6’1" junior point guard may play backup to Phil Pressey and Marcus Denmon, but he is just as important to the Tigers success. He is currently contributing 12.8 points, 2.8 assists, 2.0 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game for Mizzou.

3. Cezar Guerrero, Oklahoma State –

  The 6’0" California native has been a special gift for the Oklahoma State Cowboys. He came to the program as an underrated recruit in the class of 2011. He is playing a big role for the Cowboys this season, with averages of 6.7 points per contest while dazzling fans with his quickness and dribbling ability.

4. Tyrus McGee, Iowa State –

The 6’2" junior is a steadying force for the surprising Cyclones. While Royce White may be getting all the attention this season, McGee is playing a huge part in the team’s success. Off the bench, he is averaging 8.5 points and 3.1 rebounds a game.

5. Connor Teahan, Kansas – 

The 6’5" senior is doing his part to keep Kansas in the hunt for another Big 12 championship. As the team’s 6th man, he is averaging 7.8 points and 2.8 rebounds per contest.

Conference Power Rankings

1. Baylor 16-0 (3-0)
2. Missouri 15-1 (2-1)
3. Kansas 13-3 (3-0)
4. Kansas State 12-3 (1-2)
5. Texas 12-4 (2-1)
6. Iowa State 12-4 (2-1)
7. Oklahoma 10-5 (0-3)
8. Texas A&M 9-6 (0-3)
9. Oklahoma State 9-7 (2-1)
10. Texas Tech 7-8 (0-3)