CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – Genesis Bryant has been named Big Ten Co-Player of the Week for the third time in her career after leading Illinois to a 3-0 week, including two road wins and the program’s first-ever victory over Maryland. The announcement came on Monday from the Big Ten conference office.
Bryant averaged 20.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, 2.33 assists, and 0.67 steals while shooting an impressive 44.4% from the field, 55.6% from 3-point range, and 91.7% from the free-throw line. Her remarkable performances helped the Fighting Illini secure three victories in a week that included a program milestone win over the Terrapins.
The Jonesboro, Georgia native played all 45 minutes in Illinois’ overtime win over Rutgers, contributing a game-high 28 points, including 14 in the fourth quarter to force overtime. She also sank three key free throws in the overtime period to seal the win. Bryant continued her strong play against Maryland, scoring 20 points and sinking the game-winning free throws with just six seconds remaining to secure Illinois’ 66-65 victory. This road win over the No. 14 Terrapins marked the Illini’s fourth-straight Big Ten road victory.
Bryant’s outstanding week also included a dominant performance against Purdue, where she scored 13 points in just 25 minutes. She finished the week with her sixth and seventh 20-point games of the season.
This is Bryant’s first Big Ten Player of the Week award since December 2022, and she joins teammate Kendall Bostic, who earned the honor in November. Bryant shares this week’s recognition with Iowa’s Lucy Olsen.