The Naismith Award is an annual accolade presented to the top players in college basketball in the United States. Named after James Naismith, the inventor of basketball, the award recognizes outstanding performance and sportsmanship in both men's and women's categories. Established in 1969, the Naismith Award is awarded by the Atlanta Tipoff Club and is considered one of the most prestigious honors in college basketball. Selection criteria include individual statistics, team success, and contributions to the game, making it a significant recognition for aspiring basketball athletes.