IRVING, Texas — University of Texas freshman forward Mohamed Bamba has been named the Preseason Big 12 Freshman of the Year, the conference office announced Thursday morning. Bamba also was one of nine selections to the league's preseason Honorable Mention team. Big 12 Conference head coaches, who were not allowed to vote for their own student-athletes, selected the awards.
Bamba was tabbed the No. 2 overall prospect in the nation by Rivals and No. 3 by ESPN and Scout following his senior year at Westtown School (West Chester, Pa.). One of five finalists for the Naismith National High School Player of the Year award, he participated in the McDonald's All-American Game and the Jordan Brand Classic and represented Team USA in the 2017 Nike Hoop Summit.