By Jayson Henderson

Kansas State senior Ayoka Lee has been recognized for her outstanding performance by securing a place on the Wooden Award Midseason Top-25 Watch list. Lee, a three-time candidate for the John R. Wooden Award, was previously selected for the preseason watch list in 2021, 2022, and 2024, and she also earned a spot on the Midseason Top-25 in 2022 and 2024.

Lee, averages 19.8 points with a career-best .697 field goal percentage, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.5 blocked shots. She currently holds the third position nationally in field goal percentage and leads the Big 12 in the same category. Additionally, she ranks third in the Big 12 for scoring average and blocks per game.

Players included in the Wooden Award list are regarded as strong contenders for the award. It’s important to note that players not chosen for the preseason or midseason lists remain eligible. The National Ballot, featuring the top 15 players who meet or exceed the award’s qualifications, will be used for the final voting before the NCAA Tournament. Voters have the opportunity to consider performance during early round games. The award winner will be announced during the week of the elite eight round of the NCAA Tournament.