NORFOLK, Va. – Norfolk State guard Joe Bryant Jr. has been named to the 2022-23 Lou Henson National Player of the Year Award Watch List, CollegeInsider.com announced on Tuesday.
 
The award, which is presented annually to the top mid-major player in Division I college basketball, honors the former Illinois and New Mexico State head coach who won 775 games in 41 seasons.
 
The website didn't need to look far to find Bryant as a candidate heading into this year. The reigning MEAC Player of the Year was named to the 2021-22 Lou Henson All-America Team, recognizing the best performers across 21 eligible conferences.
 
Bryant has started the 2022-23 season in stride, averaging 14.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. The fifth-year guard has scored 20 points or more in two contests this year, tallying 24 points at No. 5 Baylor and 23 points in a road win over Monmouth.