South Carolina Gamecocks standout Collin Murray‑Boyles, better known simply as Collin Murray, has firmly established himself as one of the nation’s most dynamic collegiate talents in 2025. The guard‑turned‑forward (officially listed at 6’ 7″ and 245 lbs) secured one of the most prestigious individual accolades in college basketball when he was awarded the 2025 Bob Cousy Award, honoring the nation’s best point guardBackground: The Bob Cousy Award, initiated in 2004 and named after NBA Hall of Famer Bob Cousy, annually honors the top men’s collegiate point guard across all NCAA Division I. Selection involves nominations by coaches, CSC and NABC members, with final selection by a committee including Hall of Famers.
- Recent Ceremony: On March 3, 2025, five finalists were announced: Mark Sears (Alabama), Walter Clayton Jr. (Florida), Kam Jones (Marquette), Braden Smith (Purdue), and Zakai Zeigler (Tennessee) Among stiff competition, Murray’s recognition marks a historic moment for South Carolina.
Versatility That Defines a Gamecock
Although primarily functioning as a forward in South Carolina’s lineup, Murray emerged as the central orchestrator—handling, distributing, scoring, defending, rebounding—blurring traditional position lines. His 2024–25 statistics underscore this multidimensional impact:
- 16.8 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 2.4 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.3 BPG, with a stellar 58.6% FG across 32 starts
- Led the SEC in field-goal percentage, ranking 21st nationally).
- One of only a handful of Power Five players averaging at least 16/8/2/1/1 and shooting over 50%
- Delivered career-high performances including a 35-point, 7‑rebound, 4‑steal, 2‑assist outing against Arkansas
Midseason Recognition and National Watch Lists
Murray was selected to the 2024–25 Oscar Robertson Trophy Midseason Watch List, reserved for players demonstrating exceptional all-around contributions
Late-Season Honors
In addition to the Bob Cousy honor, Murray was:
- Named Second-team All‑SEC (coaches and AP).
- Acknowledged with SEC All‑Freshman/Honor Roll in 2024 and SEC Freshman of the Week
A Unique Hybrid Threat
Murray’s game dismantles the conventional guard-forward dichotomy:
- Ball‑handling & Court Vision: With 2.4 assists per game and a hint of point-guard instincts, he’s a playmaker in the frontcourt.
- Scoring Efficiency: High-percentage shots, drive-and-kick ability, and interior finishing—highlighted by consistent double-digit FG games.
- Defensive Tenacity: Averaging more than a steal and a block per game, he plays with the energy and discipline of a lockdown defender.
- Rebounding Mastery: At 8.3 boards per game, he controls the glass from both ends, initiating fastbreaks with outlet passes.
Noted for his versatility, Murray draws early comparisons to someone like Draymond Green—an all-court defender and playmaker with physical presence . Projections place him as a possible 12th overall pick in mock drafts (si.com).
On April 15, Murray declared for the 2025 NBA Draft, weighing early entrance against another collegiate season . Meanwhile, coach Lamont Paris and the Gamecocks are keeping a roster spot open in hopes of his return (si.com).
- Program-Defining Talent: First Gamecock since Jimmy Foster (1983–84) to average 16+ PPG with 8+ RPG (gamecocksonline.com).
- Redefining the Role: Murray shifts the paradigm—demanding recognition from scoring guards and progressive forwards alike.
- Inspirational Arc: From battling mononucleosis in his freshman year to national accolades as a sophomore , his journey resonates with turnarounds and grit.
- Upward Program Trajectory: His emergence is pivotal in elevating South Carolina’s competitiveness and national profile.
- National Spotlight
He becomes only the second non-traditional guard to win since a forward like Mario Chalmers last contended—cementing his status across positional definitions. - Recruiting & Program Momentum
His success strengthens Coach Paris’s message and sends shockwaves through recruiting pipelines aiming for a winning, player-first culture. - NBA Assurance
The Cousy nod validates draft scouts’ regard for Murray as a facilitator, defender, and leader—adding polish to his draft profile.
Collin Murray-Boyles’s accolade-laden season—highlighted by his 2025 Bob Cousy Award triumph—epitomizes the rise of an all-court phenom and the maturation of South Carolina basketball. His mix of ball‑handling, shot‑making, rebounding, defense, and leadership recasts traditional notions of both “guard” and “forward.” As he inches closer to the NBA, his legacy at Clemson will remain a testament to versatility, resilience, and transformation.
Gamecocks fans and college basketball aficionados alike have witnessed the birth of a rare talent—one whose equity lies not just in stats or awards, but in redefining roles and expectations. Whether at Colonial Life Arena or on the future’s big stages, Collin Murray has already made his mark.
