Pitt guard James Robinson named a Bob Cousy Award finalist

Pitt forward Lamar Patterson has been garnering some national respect having been named to watch lists for the Naismith and the Oscar Robertson Player of the Year award. This week, James Robinson got his turn in the spotlight when he was named as a finalist for the Bob Cousy award, given to the top point guard in college basketball.

Robinson is having a decent year, but not an overwhelming one. He does, though, lead the ACC in assist-to-turnover and since he ranks second nationally in that category, I mean, they're almost obligated to include him, right?

Robinson won't win the award, obviously, but he's done a good job for Pitt overall. The thing I've really been impressed with is his increased efficiency in shooting the ball. I wrote a couple of times about it last season, but he was really subpar there last year, making under 37% of his shots. He's up to 43% this season and is really less of a liability there. He's no three-point shooter and really, not even a great jump shooter. But he is improving there and that has to be noted.

Like I said, the chances that Robinson wins the award are virtually non-existent. Even in his own conference, he's surely behind a guy like Tyler Ennis, who is also a finalist. Still, it's good to see him get some recognition.

Be sure to join Cardiac Hill's Facebook page and follow us on Twitter @PittPantherBlog for our regular updates on Pitt athletics. Follow the author and manager/editor of Cardiac Hill @AnsonWhaley