Springfield, MA – February 2, 2026 – The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, in collaboration with the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA), has unveiled the midseason top 10 candidates for the 2026 Nancy Lieberman Award, honoring the nation’s premier point guard in women’s NCAA Division I basketball.
This prestigious accolade, now in its 27th year, celebrates players who embody the exceptional floor leadership, playmaking, and ball-handling prowess of Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman, inducted in 1996.
From an initial preseason watchlist of 20 standout guards announced back in October 2025, the field has been narrowed to this elite group based on their performances through the first half of the season. The list features a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, representing powerhouse programs across the country. Notably, NC State’s Zoe Brooks has earned her spot among the top contenders, underscoring her pivotal role in the Wolfpack’s strong 2025-26 campaign.
Brooks, a sophomore sensation for the 15-6 Wolfpack, has been a driving force with averages of 16.3 points, 4.8 assists, and 1.2 steals per game through 21 contests.
Her inclusion marks a significant milestone for NC State, as she joins an illustrious group vying for the award previously won by icons like Caitlin Clark (Iowa, 2022-24) and Paige Bueckers (UConn, 2021 and 2025).
The 2026 Nancy Lieberman Award Midseason Top 10 Candidates
Here’s the full midseason watchlist, showcasing the best point guards lighting up college hoops this year:
- Liv McGill, Florida
- Tonie Morgan, Kentucky
- Zoe Brooks, NC State
- Britt Prince, Nebraska
- Hannah Hidalgo, Notre Dame
- Aaliyah Chavez, Oklahoma
- Raven Johnson, South Carolina
- Olivia Miles, TCU
- Rori Harmon, Texas
- Kiki Rice, UCLA
These candidates were selected for their ability to orchestrate offenses, make clutch decisions, and elevate their teams—qualities that echo Lieberman’s legendary career. The list will be trimmed to five finalists in mid-March, with the winner announced ahead of the 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four in Phoenix, Arizona.
For Brooks, this recognition comes at a perfect time as NC State gears up for a crucial stretch in the ACC. Her vision and scoring touch have been key to the Wolfpack’s 8-2 conference record, and fans will be watching closely as she aims to lead her team deep into March Madness.
Stay tuned for more updates on this award and the thrilling race for point guard supremacy!
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