Miles Kelly, an electric guard for Auburn, was named the National Player of the Year by Athletic News.

Auburn’s Electric Guard Miles Kelly Crowned National Player of the Year by Athletic News

In a season filled with spectacular performances, one player has stood above the rest, earning recognition as the best in the country. Auburn University’s dynamic guard, Miles Kelly, has been named National Player of the Year by Athletic News, capping off a spectacular campaign that saw him elevate his game to new heights and lead the Tigers to a dominant season. Kelly’s blend of athleticism, scoring ability, and leadership has made him one of the most exciting players in college basketball, and now he stands as the best player in the nation.

The Rise of Miles Kelly

Miles Kelly’s journey to becoming the National Player of the Year is a testament to his work ethic, determination, and natural talent. A native of Montgomery, Alabama, Kelly’s basketball journey began at a young age, where he quickly gained a reputation for his explosive athleticism and sharp basketball IQ. As a high school standout at Montgomery High, he garnered attention from college recruiters across the country, with many schools keen to tap into his raw potential.

Kelly’s decision to commit to Auburn was not a surprise to many. The Tigers, under the leadership of head coach Bruce Pearl, had become a rising force in college basketball, and Kelly was seen as the perfect piece to complement their high-energy system. From the moment he stepped onto the court for Auburn, it was clear that Kelly was not just another recruit—he was a player who would make an immediate impact.

In his freshman year, Kelly quickly proved he was capable of performing on the big stage. His impressive scoring outbursts and lockdown defense made him one of the most versatile guards in the SEC. But it was his sophomore year that truly showcased his growth as a player. As the 2024-2025 season began, Kelly entered the campaign with a chip on his shoulder, determined to prove himself as one of the elite players in college basketball.

A Breakout Year: The 2024-2025 Season

From the opening tip-off of the 2024-2025 season, Miles Kelly was on a mission. His combination of speed, vision, and scoring ability made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Whether it was knocking down deep three-pointers, attacking the rim with ferocity, or dishing out key assists, Kelly became the focal point of Auburn’s offense.

One of the most impressive aspects of Kelly’s game this season was his ability to impact all facets of the game. He averaged 21.2 points per game, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.9 assists, showing an all-around game that made him nearly impossible to stop. His three-point shooting, which had always been a strength, took a massive leap forward. Kelly shot 42.7% from beyond the arc, making him one of the top shooters in the country.

But Kelly’s impact wasn’t just felt on the offensive end. He developed into one of the most tenacious defenders in the nation, using his quickness and length to disrupt passing lanes and guard the opposing team’s best players. His ability to defend multiple positions allowed Auburn to employ a versatile defensive scheme, often switching between man-to-man and zone defenses without missing a beat.

Signature Moments: Kelly Shines Under the Spotlight

While Kelly’s consistency throughout the season was impressive, it was his ability to perform in the most crucial moments that truly set him apart. Auburn’s schedule this season was filled with high-stakes matchups against some of the best teams in the nation, and Kelly delivered time and time again when his team needed him most.

One of the defining moments of Kelly’s season came in a highly anticipated matchup against the No. 1-ranked team in the nation, the Kansas Jayhawks. With the game tied at 75-75 and only 10 seconds remaining, Auburn found themselves with one final possession. Coach Bruce Pearl drew up a play that would give Kelly the ball in isolation at the top of the key, and the junior guard delivered. With the clock winding down, Kelly used a quick crossover to blow by his defender and launched a three-pointer over the outstretched hand of Kansas’ best defender, Jalen Wilson. The ball sailed through the air and swished through the net as time expired, giving Auburn a thrilling 78-75 victory. Kelly finished the game with 31 points, including the game-winning shot, and cemented his status as one of the most clutch players in college basketball.

Kelly also turned in a dominant performance in Auburn’s SEC showdown against Kentucky, a game that would ultimately determine the conference champion. With the Wildcats leading by 10 points late in the second half, Auburn was in desperate need of a spark. Enter Miles Kelly. The guard scored 15 points in the final 5 minutes of the game, leading a furious Auburn comeback to win 85-82. His ability to take over in the final moments was a testament to his mental toughness and his ability to perform under pressure.

Kelly’s strong performances were not limited to just the national stage. In SEC play, he consistently delivered when his team needed him, leading Auburn to a first-place finish in the conference and an overall record of 27-3, one of the best in the country. His remarkable consistency earned him multiple Player of the Week honors and made him a unanimous first-team All-SEC selection.

The Leadership Factor: Kelly’s Impact Beyond the Stats

While Miles Kelly’s individual achievements were enough to earn him National Player of the Year honors, it was his leadership and intangibles that made him truly special. Auburn’s success this season was a reflection of Kelly’s ability to elevate his teammates and bring the best out of those around him.

As a captain, Kelly was the emotional leader of the Tigers, consistently motivating and encouraging his teammates. His presence on the floor was magnetic, and he was often seen huddling with his teammates during timeouts, offering advice or simply reassuring them in tough moments. Off the court, Kelly worked tirelessly to help his teammates improve, whether it was staying late after practice to work on shooting or organizing team bonding activities to strengthen the camaraderie within the group.

Kelly’s leadership was especially evident in the NCAA tournament, where Auburn made a deep run to the Final Four. Throughout the tournament, Kelly played with a sense of urgency and determination, refusing to let his team falter. In a tense Elite Eight matchup against a strong Duke team, Kelly played 40 minutes, scoring 28 points and grabbing 9 rebounds to lead Auburn to a thrilling 77-72 win. His performance was a perfect example of his all-around game and his ability to take over when the lights were brightest.

The Award and Its Significance

Miles Kelly’s National Player of the Year award is a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding season and career. The honor is not only a testament to his individual talent but also a reflection of his impact on the Auburn basketball program. Under Coach Bruce Pearl, Auburn has transformed into a national powerhouse, and Kelly’s leadership has been at the heart of that transformation.

The National Player of the Year award marks the pinnacle of a remarkable college basketball career for Kelly, who now has his sights set on an NBA future. While the accolades are undoubtedly rewarding, Kelly remains humble, always quick to credit his teammates and coaches for their role in his success. “This award means a lot to me, but it’s not just about me,” Kelly said in a press conference after receiving the honor. “I wouldn’t be here without my teammates, my coaches, and everyone who has supported me along the way. This is a team award as much as it is an individual one.”

Looking Ahead: Kelly’s Future

While Kelly’s college career may soon come to a close, his future in professional basketball is bright. NBA scouts have taken notice of his all-around game, his scoring ability, and his leadership qualities. Kelly’s ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor makes him a potential top-tier pick in the upcoming NBA draft, and many experts predict he will be one of the first guards selected.

For Auburn, Kelly’s legacy will endure long after his final game. His performance this season, combined with his leadership and dedication, has set the standard for future Tigers players. Auburn’s ascent to the top of college basketball can be traced directly to Kelly’s efforts, and his name will forever be synonymous with Auburn’s rise to national prominence.

As Auburn prepares for the next chapter of its basketball program, Miles Kelly’s National Player of the Year award serves as a reminder of the heights that can be reached when talent, hard work, and leadership come together in perfect harmony.