Jordan Bell: Pac-12 Defensive Player of Year

Jordan Bell was named the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year. The junior was the first Duck to claim the award in its 14-year existence. His defensive presence was instrumental in Oregon’s reign to another regular season title at 27-4, 16-2 Pac-12 and 17-0 at home.

He teamed with fellow All-Defensive Team selection Chris Boucher to help the Ducks post 6.8 blocks per game, second-best in the nation and on pace to break the Pac-12 single-season record.

He’s the only player inside the top 10 in the league in rebounding (7.9 RPG, 10th), steals (1.4 SPG, 8th) and blocks (2.1 BPG, 4th). Additionally, he’s providing a career-best 10.1 points per game at the second-best field goal rate in the Pac-12 (.630).

Bell was also named to the All-Pac-12 Second Team, including being placed on the 2017 Pac-12 All-Defensive Team alongside teammate Chris Boucher.

“Keep doing what we’ve been doing all year. Keep fighting, keep grinding,” said Bell.

Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images

The Long Beach, Calif. native was dominant during Oregon’s Civil War victory on Saturday. Bell finished with 13 points, 10 boards and three blocked shots en route of the Beavers, 80-59, from Gill Coliseum.

Bell has been a constant for Oregon since he walked onto campus three years ago. The block party between him and Boucher has forced more altered shots than any team in the country. That alone will prove vital down the home stretch.

“I think we can really win this thing,” Bell said in reference to the national title.

Jordan Bell is not only a supremely talented basketball player, but he is a great person too. He is one of the most modest, humble athletes. His NBA stock will continue to rise because of the player he is off the court, more than what he can be on it. Bell is one of a kind. Enjoy him while you still can.

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