Three of the American Athletic Conference’s most promising players — DeeDee Hagemann from Memphis, Delanie Crawford from Tulsa and UTSA’s Jordyn Jenkins — have been named to the Becky Hammon Mid-Major Player of the Year Watch List. This recognition places them in the spotlight not only within the AAC but across the national stage, as each player brings something distinctive to the competition.
Hagemann’s arrival at Memphis, after a successful career at Michigan State, has added a new level of depth and playmaking to the Tigers. Last season, she averaged 12.3 points and 5.2 assists per game, leading the Big Ten with a 2.84 assist-to-turnover ratio while guiding the Spartans to their first NCAA Tournament since 2021. Now at Memphis, Hagemann’s composure and control on the court bring maturity and stability to the Tigers’ offense. Though new to the AAC, her years of Big Ten experience will allow her to transition seamlessly. If she maintains her scoring and playmaking efficiency, Hagemann is a formidable contender, though her first year in the AAC presents a challenge as she finds her footing with a new team.
Crawford’s impact on Tulsa’s program is equally impressive. Last season, the senior guard broke Tulsa’s single-season three-point record with 99 shots from beyond the arc and averaged 19.0 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. Crawford established herself as one of the AAC’s most versatile scorers, posting double digits in 33 of 35 games, with 15 games over 20 points and three games exceeding 30 points. Coach Angie Nelp’s offensive system, emphasizing floor spacing and open shots, has allowed Crawford to thrive as a sharpshooter while developing her driving and finishing abilities. With her consistency and a team designed to amplify her strengths, Crawford is positioned as another strong contender for the Becky Hammon award.
While Hagemann and Crawford are impressive in their own right, Jenkins’ blend of experience and two-way ability makes her the AAC’s best candidate to secure a spot on the semifinalist list. Although an injury limited her early last season, she quickly found her form, averaging 17.1 points and 6.8 rebounds over 12 games, with a sharp 47.9% field goal percentage. Jenkins’ precision shooting, particularly from mid-range and around the rim, consistently stretches defenses and provides the Roadrunners with a dependable scoring anchor. On the defensive end, Jenkins was a critical piece of a Roadrunners squad that posted 4.6 blocks per game and 6.5 steals per game, showcasing her ability to disrupt opponents while enhancing UTSA’s presence in the paint.
UTSA coach Karen Aston has assembled a balanced roster built to maximize Jenkins’ strengths, prioritizing both offensive and defensive flexibility. With key contributions from players like sophomores, guard Aysia Proctor and forward Idara Udo, the Roadrunners have provided Jenkins with the ideal support system. Her all-around contributions position her as one of the AAC’s most complete players. Jenkins is not only UTSA’s top scorer but also a team leader whose presence on both ends of the floor amplifies her team’s potential.
Jenkins’ role is further amplified by Aston’s system, which optimally integrates Jenkins’ skills with the team’s objectives. As the season ensues, Jenkins is not only in prime contention for a semifinalist spot but also has a strong chance of winning the entire Becky Hammon award. Her blend of talent, teammates and the approach of an experienced head coach positions her as the AAC’s most formidable candidate on the watchlist, making her advancement to the semifinalist list achievable.
In a conference loaded with talent, Hagemann, Crawford and Jenkins each have the skills and support needed to make a strong case to make the semifinalist list. Hagemann’s playmaking and efficiency, and Crawford’s offensive consistency, are more than enough to push them forward. Yet, Jenkins’ multidimensional role and the solid framework UTSA has built around her give her a decisive edge in this race. As the season unfolds, these three athletes will undoubtedly elevate their teams. However, if one player emerges as the AAC’s top contender for the semifinalist list in February, it’s Jenkins, who has the opportunity to take both her game and team to new heights this season.
