One of the bright spots this season was watching Tyler Kolek develop into a starter and star player for George Mason in his debut season. Today the A-10 conference announced he was named rookie of the year in the end of season annual awards:

Kolek was one of the best three-point shooters in the conference this season and at times looked like a savy veteran on the floor. He took the starting role and never looked back.

Tyler is another example showing that Dave Paulsen seems to have a good eye for getting overlooked talent. Justin Kier and Otis Livingston are among the other examples but neither as productive a season as Kolek just had. Otis didn’t have to fight against a veteran team for minutes either which makes this past season even more impressive for the Rhode Island native. Have to hope if Dave Paulsen remains here next season he can continue to find guys like this.