(From MSU Athletics)
Mississippi’s rich basketball tradition added another historic chapter this week as two standout athletes were recognized with the state’s highest collegiate honors.
At the forefront is Josh Hubbard of Mississippi State University, who continues to redefine excellence on the hardwood. Hubbard was named the 2026 recipient of the Howell Trophy, making him the first player in history to earn the prestigious honor three times. Presented annually by the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, the award recognizes the top men’s collegiate basketball player in the state.
Named in honor of Bailey Howell—a Mississippi State legend and Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame inductee—the Howell Trophy represents the pinnacle of in-state collegiate achievement. Hubbard’s latest win not only cements his place among Mississippi’s all-time greats but also extends Mississippi State’s remarkable dominance. The Bulldogs have now claimed eight of the last nine Howell Trophy honors, a stretch that includes standout names such as Quinndary Weatherspoon, Iverson Molinar, Reggie Perry, and Tolu Smith III.
(Photo from Ole Miss Athletics)
On the women’s side, excellence was equally celebrated as Cotie McMahon captured the 2026 Gillom Trophy. The award, presented at the Golden Moon Casino and sponsored by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians and Pearl River Resort, honors the state’s most outstanding women’s collegiate basketball player each year.
Named after Peggie Gillom-Granderson, the Gillom Trophy has become a symbol of elite performance in women’s college basketball across Mississippi. McMahon’s recognition comes just two days after being selected 11th overall in the WNBA Draft by the Washington Mystics, further highlighting her exceptional rise in the sport.
Her win also continues a strong run for University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss. A Rebel has now secured the Gillom Trophy in five of the last six seasons, with previous winners including Shakira Austin, Angel Baker, and Madison Scott.
Together, Hubbard and McMahon represent the very best of Mississippi’s collegiate basketball talent—athletes whose performances not only bring pride to their programs but also continue to elevate the state’s reputation on the national stage.