Jaloni Cambridge, the sophomore guard from Ohio State’s basketball team, has recently been distinguished as a finalist for the 2026 Dawn Staley Award, as reported by our news outlet. This accolade, reserved for the most outstanding guard in women’s collegiate basketball, counts Cambridge among its top five contenders this year. Notably, she stands as the sole representative from the Big Ten conference in this elite group.
Recognition and Accolades Leading to the Dawn Staley Award Nomination
Throughout the current season, Cambridge has garnered significant attention, featuring on several high-profile preseason watch lists, including those for the Naismith Trophy and the Wooden Award. Her performance merited inclusion in the Wooden Award Midseason Top 25 and subsequently the Late Midseason Top 20 rankings, underscoring her consistent excellence on the court.
Additionally, Cambridge secured a position on the Naismith Trophy Late Season Team, further testifying to her impact and skill level among her peers. These acknowledgments collectively reflect her standing as one of the premier guards in the nation, validating her status as a formidable candidate for the Dawn Staley Award.