ESPN REPORTS: Tre Donaldson Makes History with Bob Cousy and Midseason Wooden Awards
In an electrifying college basketball season filled with breakout stars and unforgettable moments, one name has consistently shined brighter than the rest — Tre Donaldson. The University of Michigan Wolverines’ standout shooting guard has etched his name in the annals of NCAA history by accomplishing a rare and remarkable feat: winning both the prestigious 2025 Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award.
Donaldson’s emergence as one of the most complete and dominant players in the country has been nothing short of spectacular. From buzzer-beaters to lockdown defense, his impact on the court has transcended stats, making him the heartbeat of a resurgent Michigan program and a household name in college basketball.
A Star is Born in Ann Arbor
When Tre Donaldson transferred to Michigan ahead of the 2024-25 season, expectations were high — but few could have predicted just how transformative his presence would be. The 6’2” junior brought with him a fierce competitiveness and a high basketball IQ that meshed seamlessly with head coach Juwan Howard’s vision. What started as a promising addition quickly evolved into a season-defining acquisition.
Known for his explosive first step and tenacity on both ends of the floor, Donaldson has become a matchup nightmare. As the Wolverines pushed through the early stages of the season, his leadership and consistency began to separate him from the pack. His clutch shooting, uncanny court vision, and defensive prowess helped propel Michigan into national title contention.
The Bob Cousy Award: Point Guard Excellence
While listed as a shooting guard for much of the season, Donaldson’s ability to function as a hybrid guard, running the offense and creating for others, earned him consideration for the Bob Cousy Award — an honor traditionally reserved for the nation’s top point guard. The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, which presents the award annually, praised Donaldson’s versatility, floor leadership, and basketball IQ.
The Bob Cousy Award is not handed out lightly. It recognizes players who demonstrate the skill, dedication, and poise reminiscent of the legendary Boston Celtics point guard. Donaldson checked every box. His assist-to-turnover ratio remained among the best in the country, and his ability to break down defenses and orchestrate Michigan’s offense was unparalleled.
Perhaps most impressively, Donaldson displayed an elite sense of timing. In crunch time, when lesser players shrink, he elevated. Time and time again, he delivered clutch shots, made the right passes, and locked down opposing stars.
Midseason Wooden Award: A Dominant Campaign
The John R. Wooden Award, named after the legendary UCLA coach, is given annually to the most outstanding college basketball player in the nation. While the final award won’t be presented until after the NCAA tournament, Donaldson’s performance through the first half of the season was so dominant that he earned the Midseason Wooden Award, putting him firmly on the radar as the favorite for the final honor.
Donaldson averaged 20.8 points, 6.3 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.1 steals per game through January. More than the numbers, however, it was his ability to elevate his team in high-pressure games that caught the attention of voters. Michigan’s victories over top-10 opponents, including a double-overtime thriller against Purdue and a commanding win over rival Michigan State, showcased Donaldson’s all-around brilliance.
Leadership and Intangibles
While awards often focus on on-court performance, Donaldson’s leadership has been just as vital to Michigan’s success. In a locker room filled with youth and potential, he has been the glue — a vocal leader who holds teammates accountable and sets the tone with his work ethic.
“He’s the kind of guy you build a program around,” said Coach Howard in a recent interview. “He’s vocal when he needs to be, but he leads mostly by example. Whether it’s diving for loose balls or staying after practice to help the younger guys, Tre brings it every single day.”
Off the court, Donaldson has embraced his role as a campus leader. He’s involved in mentorship programs for local youth and has quickly become a fan favorite in Ann Arbor. His humility and commitment to the team-first mentality have made him not just a great player, but an exemplary representative of college basketball.
Historical Significance
Winning both the Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award in the same season is a rarity — a testament to Donaldson’s unique skill set and the evolution of the guard position in modern basketball. While past Wooden Award winners have often been forwards or dominant scoring guards, Donaldson’s hybrid style brings a refreshing blend of old-school fundamentals and new-school flash.
Analysts have been quick to draw comparisons to NBA stars like Jrue Holiday and Tyrese Haliburton — guards who combine elite playmaking with defensive grit. If Donaldson continues at this pace, he won’t just be remembered for one historic season; he’ll be remembered as a player who redefined what it means to be a complete guard at the college level.
Eyes on March and Beyond
As the regular season nears its conclusion and March Madness looms, all eyes are on Donaldson to lead the Wolverines on a deep NCAA tournament run. Michigan currently holds a top-three seed projection, and their success in the postseason may very well determine whether Donaldson adds the final Wooden Award and perhaps even the Naismith Trophy to his growing trophy case.
NBA scouts are already buzzing, projecting Donaldson as a mid-to-late first-round pick, with some arguing that his stock could rise further with a strong tournament showing. However, when asked about the NBA, Donaldson has remained focused.
“I’m just trying to win,” he said after a recent win over Illinois. “The individual stuff is great, but our goal is a national championship. That’s what we’re working for every day.”
A Season to Remember
No matter how the rest of the season plays out, Tre Donaldson’s 2024-25 campaign will go down as one of the most remarkable in recent college basketball history. Winning both the Bob Cousy Award and the Midseason Wooden Award speaks volumes about his talent, but it’s the way he’s elevated his team, embraced leadership, and captivated fans that has truly made this a season to remember.
As the Wolverines continue their march toward destiny, one thing is clear — with Tre
Donaldson leading the charge, anything is possible.