Grant Newell Named Pac-12 Freshman Of The Week

SAN FRANCISCO – California forward Grant Newell was named the Pac-12 Freshman of the Week following his performance in the Golden Bears’ win against UT Arlington on Dec. 21, the conference office announced Monday afternoon.

Newell is Cal’s first recipient of the Pac-12’s freshman of the week honor since it was introduced during the 2019-20 season.

The Chicago, Illinois native scored nine points and added three assists, two rebounds and a steal in the Bears’ convincing 73-51 victory over the visiting Mavericks. After UT Arlington pulled within six points of Cal, 25-19, late in the first half, Newell knocked down a key 3-pointer with 18 seconds remaining before halftime to send the Bears into the locker room with a 28-19 advantage.
It was the rookie’s seventh game with seven points or more and his sixth effort with three or more field goals made this season.

Newell, who is fourth among Bears with 7.5 points per game, has been thrust into a starting role this season due to numerous injuries throughout Cal’s roster. He made his 11th start in 13 games played in the win over UT Arlington and is averaging 25.2 minutes per game.

Arizona junior forward Azuolas Tubelis was named the Pac-12 Player of the Week alongside Newell.

Newell and the Bears are back in action Thursday night when they resume the remainder of their Pac-12 schedule against Utah at 7 p.m. PST in Berkeley.

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