Illinois, Iowa, and Purdue Split Week One Big Ten Honors

The Big Ten released its weekly award winners for the opening week of the regular season and three teams ended up splitting the awards. Iowa’s Luka Garza was named Big Ten Player of the Week and Illinois’ Adam Miller and Purdue’s Zach Edey were named Co-Big Ten Freshman of the Week.

Garza returned to Iowa last offseason after putting together a stellar 2019-’20 season. And while we knew he was good, I’m not sure anyone expected this kind of debut. Through two games, he’s averaging 33.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 3.0 blocked shots. This is the third time he’s been named Big Ten Player of the Week during his career. Don’t expect it to be the last this season.

Edey and Miller had big weeks as well. Edey averaged 18.0 points and 6.5 rebounds in Purdue’s opening games, including a win over Liberty. Meanwhile, Miller averaged 18.0 points and 2.3 rebounds in the team’s three opening wins. This is the first time either Edey or Miller have won this award.

Congratulations are in order for all three players. Don’t be surprised if these three show back up on this list given how they have played to date.