Gustafson Named to Lisa Leslie Center Award Top-10 List

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IOWA CITY, Iowa — University of Iowa junior Megan Gustafson has been named a top-10 candidate for the 2018 Lisa Leslie Award, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association announced on Friday. The inaugural award recognizes the nation’s top center.
 
In 23 games this season, Gustafson is averaging 24.5 points, 12.5 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks. The Port Wing, Wisconsin, native is shooting 66.6 percent from the field and 81.2 percent from the free throw line this season. In conference contests, Gustafson is averaging 27.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, 3.1 blocks, and shooting 63.1 percent from the field and 85.7 percent from the free throw line.
 
Gustafson is currently ranked in the top-seven nationally in eight statistical categories. She leads the nation in field goals made (207), ranks second in double-doubles (20) and field goal percentage (66.1), third in total points (527), fourth in points per game (24.0), sixth in defensive rebounds per game (8), and seventh in rebounds (271) and rebounds per game (12.3).
 
The selection committee for the Lisa Leslie Award is composed of top women’s college basketball personnel including media members, head coaches, sports information directors, and Hall of Famers. In March, five finalists will be presented to Lisa Leslie and the Hall of Fame’s selection committee. Fans will also have the opportunity to vote for their favorite finalists to determine the Naismith Starting 5.
 
The winner of the 2018 Lisa Leslie Center Award will be announced during ESPN2’s telecast of the national semifinal games in the 2018 NCAA Women’s Final Four in Columbus, Ohio, on March 30.
 
Gustafson and the Hawkeyes return to action on Sunday, hosting Minnesota at 2 p.m. (CT). Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for youth, and free for UI students.
 
2018 Lisa Leslie Award Candidates