Twenty players have been named to the 2026-27 Nancy Lieberman Award watchlist, and Michigan State’s own Kennedy Blair is among them.
The Nancy Lieberman Award recognizes the top point guard in NCAA Division I women’s college basketball. Now in its 28th year, the award features some of the nation’s best point guards on its preseason watchlist.
It’s no surprise that the Spartans’ leader, Blair, earned a spot on the list.
Blair broke out last season, putting the team on her back following an early injury to Theryn Hallock. Blair responded in impressive fashion, putting her head down and going to work.
Last season, Blair led the Spartans in minutes played per game (30.2), as she seemed to take over games and played so dominantly that it was difficult for head coach Robyn Fralick to take her out. Her passion for the game was evident, and she was rewarded with plenty of time on the court.
Blair returned that trust with outstanding production. She finished second on the team in scoring, averaging 14.5 points per game behind Grace VanSlooten, who was drafted by the Seattle Storm in the third round of the 2026 WNBA Draft before joining the Indiana Fever.
Despite playing point guard, Blair also led the Spartans in rebounds per game, averaging 7.1. Her ability to fight for every rebound exemplified her relentless attitude and willingness to give everything she had on the court.
Scoring and battling for rebounds weren't the only strengths of Blair’s game. She also led Michigan State in assists per game (5.2), showcasing her court vision and playmaking ability, while leading the team in steals per game (2.4).
Blair Looks to Lead Michigan State Back to the NCAA Tournament
Blair will have her running mate, Hallock, back this season as the two look to build on what Fralick and the Spartans have established over the past few years. Michigan State has reached the NCAA Tournament in each of the last three seasons, and the program will look to keep that streak alive.
Last season, the Spartans had an opportunity to host the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament, with the top four seeds in each region earning hosting privileges. However, a late-season collapse in Big Ten play cost Michigan State a top-four seed and the opportunity to host.
This season, Blair and the Spartans will look to put together a more consistent campaign and earn a top-four seed. With Blair leading the way and Hallock returning to the lineup, Michigan State will aim to make a run to the Sweet Sixteen for the first time in nearly 20 years.
Before the regular season begins, the Spartans will play their lone exhibition game against Michigan Tech on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. ET, with the game available on B1G+.
Michigan State’s regular season will begin Tuesday, Nov. 3, the same day as the men’s basketball team, with the Spartans set to open against Valparaiso.
With Blair earning preseason recognition and preparing for another season as one of Michigan State’s key players, the Spartans will look to turn that individual success into another strong year for the program.