"As someone with an appreciation for the history of college basketball, it’s a real honor to be named National Player of the Year by the Associated Press," said Valentine. "Look at the names of all the great players to win this award dating back to the 1960s – they are some of the game’s all-time greats. To be the first Spartan to ever win this award is extremely humbling.”
It's the sixth National Player of the Year award for Valentine, as he's previously been recognized by the NABC, Basketball Times, Sports Illustrated, USA Today Sports and NBC Sports.