ARLINGTON, Texas – This week, Jackson Holcombe from Utah Valley and Cam McDowell from Tarleton State stood out in men’s basketball. They’ve both been recognized as the University Credit Union Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Player and Newcomer of the Week for the games ending on December 7.
Holcombe, a redshirt sophomore guard, had an impressive performance. He averaged 18 points, 8.5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2.5 steals in two games. He shot 63.2% from the floor. In the game against San Diego State on December 3, he scored 17 points with 10 rebounds, five assists, and three steals. Then, he topped it off with 19 points along with seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals in a nice win over Bowling Green on December 6.
On the other hand, McDowell, a senior transfer guard, also showcased his skills remarkably. He averaged 23 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals over two games, helping Tarleton State secure victories. He scored 20 points against Howard Payne on December 3 and followed that up with 26 points versus Cameron on December 7.
Such standout performances highlight the growing talent in the WAC. According to a recent survey by NCAA, college basketball viewership is on the rise, with a 15% increase in fans tuning in this season compared to last. This could be attributed to thrilling games and emerging stars like Holcombe and McDowell making names for themselves.
WAC Men’s Basketball Weekly Awards:
Player of the Week:
- Jackson Holcombe, R-So., G, Utah Valley (Dec. 8)
- Ethan Potter, Sr., F, Utah Tech (Dec. 1)
- Dior Johnson, Jr., G, Tarleton State (Nov. 24, Nov. 17)
- Dominique Daniels Jr., Grad, G, California Baptist (Nov. 10)
Newcomer of the Week:
- Cam McDowell, Sr., G, Tarleton State (Dec. 8)
- Jordan Muller, Fr., G, California Baptist (Dec. 1)
- Dior Johnson, Jr., G, Tarleton State (Nov. 24, Nov. 17)
- Chance Trujillo, R-So., G, Utah Tech (Nov. 10)
As the season progresses, expectations are high. Fans are eager to see how these players develop and how their teams perform in the competitive landscape of college basketball.
For more detailed information on the WAC, visit the University Credit Union website.

