Syracuse women’s basketball: Alexis Peterson named to Wade Trophy watch list

Off to a strong start in the 2016-17 campaign, Syracuse Orange guard Alexis Peterson adds another potential honor to her growing list. Today, she was named to the watch list for the Wade Trophy, which the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association gives out annually to the best player in the country.

Peterson is currently the 10th-ranked scorer in the country, averaging 22.8 points per game. As is the case for most games, she was a key figure for the Orange in Wednesday night’s win over Michigan State, scoring 27 points. She’s scored 25 points or more in half of SU’s eight contests thus far.

Just yesterday, Peterson was also named to the Naismith Trophy watch list. The award, which also honors college basketball’s top player, cuts its list of 50 players down over the course of the year. If Peterson continues to play at this high level, it would stand to reason she could be among the top-10 or so players as the season wears on.

Peterson has been the statistical and emotional leader of this Orange women’s team dating back to last season. Not only did she rack up All-ACC accolades during the regular season, but also took home Most Outstanding Player honors for the Sioux Falls Regional in last year’s NCAA Tournament. She was an All-ACC selection once again this preseason, and has responded accordingly. Peterson currently leads the conference in scoring (points per game).

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At 5-3 right now, Peterson and SU are back in action this Sunday and hope to continue their winning ways. They’ll get a three-game respite from tough opponents coming up before being thrown into the Florida Sunshine Classic, and then ACC play.