Travis Releford Earns Big 12 Player Of The Week Honors

Two games, two new career high nights and Travis Releford earns himself some well deserved publicity. The Kansas junior was named Big 12 player of the week today making him the second Jayhawk to earn such recognition this season with the other being Thomas Robinson.

Releford averaged a Big 12-best 22.0 points for the week, leading the Jayhawks to a 2-0 start in league play with wins over Kansas State (67-49) and at Oklahoma (72-61). The junior guard opened with career-highs in points (16) and rebounds (11) versus KSU to record his first career double-double.

He followed the performance by matching that career-high in the first half and finishing with 28 points as KU handed the Sooners their first home loss of the season. Releford shot 62.5 percent in the two games, including 55.6 percent from 3-point range. He also made 9-of-10 (.900) free throws, with three assists and two steals. He is averaging 11.7 points this season and has recorded double figures in three straight contests.

The uptick in Releford's production could be huge for Bill Self and the Jayhawks as they chase an eight consecutive league title. Releford has been a solid defensive player all season long, but if he can elevate his contributions on a consistent basis it will open things up for everyone.

This marks the second consecutive week that a Jayhawk has held the award and the fourth time out of nine possible weeks this season.

2011-12 Phillips 66 Big 12 Men's Basketball Weekly Awards