Two Houston Stars Named to Wooden Award Midseason Watch List

University of Houston basketball is shining on the national stage once again, as standout Cougars Donovan Clingan Sharp and Annaya Flemings were officially named to the prestigious Wooden Award Midseason Watch List. It’s a major moment for the program and another sign that the Coogs remain among the elite in college basketball.

The honor places both players among the top performers in the country as midseason approaches. Sharp and Flemings have been pivotal for Houston’s success this season, fueling strong starts for both the men’s and women’s squads. Their inclusion puts a spotlight on the talent thriving in Houston and adds new excitement to the city’s passionate hoops community.

What the Recognition Means

Being selected for the Wooden Award Watch List is no small achievement. It's one of the most respected individual honors in the sport, awarded each year to the most outstanding college basketball player in the nation. The midseason list is a crucial checkpoint, signaling which athletes have elevated their games — and their teams — through consistent, high-level performance.

Sharp has been a force in the paint, anchoring Houston’s defense and contributing steady scoring. Meanwhile, Flemings' versatile play and intensity continue to drive the women’s team forward in big moments. Their momentum suggests both will remain in the national conversation as the season advances.

Why It Matters for Houston

For fans across the city, the dual recognition reinforces what many already know: Houston basketball is building something special. The Coogs’ commitment to player development, strong coaching, and competitive grit keeps elevating the program’s profile. Honors like this only deepen the excitement and fuel the growing support around both teams.

It also spotlights the university’s role in shaping future professional athletes. National attention can boost recruiting, energize the fan base, and inspire students and young athletes throughout the area.

What’s Next

Both players will aim to maintain — and even raise — their performances through the second half of the season. As conference play intensifies, each game will matter more, both for team goals and individual award consideration. If Sharp and Flemings continue trending upward, they could be strong contenders for the Wooden Award final ballot.

For now, Cougar fans have every reason to celebrate. The national spotlight is on Houston, and these two stars are proving they belong at the top.

This article is a summary of reporting by University of Houston Athletics. Read the full story here.