Chalmers Named Big 12 Rookie of the Week

Jan. 30, 2006

LAWRENCE, Kan. –

Freshman Mario Chalmers has been named the Phillips 66 Big 12 Conference Rookie of the Week for his performances in last week’s games, the league office announced today.

Chalmers led the Jayhawks to two wins away from home as KU won at Texas A&M (83-73) and Iowa State (95-85). The freshman guard averaged 18.0 points, 6.5 assists and 4.5 steals in the two contests, shooting 60.0 percent (9-of-15) from the floor. He connected on 4-of-6 (.667) 3-pointers and finished 82.4 percent (14-of-17) from the free throw line. Chalmers established a career-high for assists at A&M, posting eight with just two turnovers. He has scored 15.9 points per game in Big 12 play.

This is the first time Chalmers has received the honor and the second time this season a KU player has been named Phillips 66 Big 12 Rookie of the Week. Brandon Rush earned the honor Jan. 9 for his effort in wins against Yale and Kentucky.