Amondo Miller Jr. and Antonio Pusateri, forwards from Lubbock Christian University, have made it to the Bevo Francis Top 100 Watch List for 2026. This list highlights standout players in small college basketball, including those from NCAA Division II and III, NAIA, USCAA, and NCCAA. The Bevo Francis Award celebrates exceptional performance throughout the season. Notably, this is the award’s 10th year, although there was no winner in 2021.
The selection committee, consisting of 20 coaches, evaluates players based on statistics, individual achievements, and their character both on and off the court. Miller Jr. and Pusateri are the first Chaps to be featured on this list since Rowan Mackenzie in 2023.
The award is named after Clarence “Bevo” Francis, a basketball legend from the 1950s. During his time at Rio Grande College, he led his team to a remarkable 39-0 season and averaged over 50 points per game, a record that still resonates today. His presence was so significant that it helped save the school from financial struggles.
As for the timeline of the award, the list will narrow down from 100 to 50 on February 15. By March 15, the top 25 will be revealed, and on April 2, the finalists will be announced. The award winner will be crowned on April 7.
This season, Miller Jr. is impressive, scoring an average of 19.8 points per game, ranking second in the Lone Star Conference. His shooting accuracy stands at 50.4%, including a solid 41.4% from three-point range, along with 8.9 rebounds per game. He has recorded six double-doubles this year.
Pusateri is also making headlines, averaging a double-double each game, and sits second nationally with ten such performances. He scores 16.0 points per game and leads the conference with 10.7 rebounds per game while shooting 57.3% overall. His defensive skills shine as he has blocked 21 shots this season.
Currently, the Chaparrals boast a strong record of 16-2, with a 7-1 mark in Lone Star Conference play. They are tied for first place and will next play against No. 24 Eastern New Mexico this Saturday at 3 p.m. at the Rip Griffin Center.
For more information on the Bevo Francis Award and its history, you can check out the official Small College Basketball website for updates and stats.
