2023 Travis Grant Award Recipient, Rayquan Elliott – Oklahoma Panhandle State University

Rayquan Elliott, an Oklahoma Panhandle State University senior, has been making headlines as he was named the 2023 Travis Grant Award recipient, presented annually to the player with the highest point-per-game average in all college basketball divisions.

The Travis Grant Award is one of five awards named after legendary HBCU players, highlighting the top players at all levels of college basketball. The objective is to acknowledge the top student-athletes in college basketball and bring attention to some of the best players ever to play the game.

Elliott’s success on the court is no surprise to those following his career. He has always had a natural talent for the sport and has worked tirelessly to hone his skills over the years. His hard work and dedication have paid off, and he has become one of the most respected players in the country.

Elliott averaged 30.6 points a game while shooting 48% from the field. Elliott had a career-high on 11/11/22 when he scored 51 points, going 17-24 from the floor and 5-8 from the three-point line. Elliott recorded three 40-point games and finished with 1,280 points in his two years as an Aggie.

“I’m extremely honored to receive the 2023 Travis Grant Award. He was an exceptional player, so being associated with someone in that category is a career highlight for me. Leading the nation in scoring wasn’t a goal that I set. I wanted to win games and be a leader for my team,” said Elliott. “It took mental strategy and creativity with the ball to keep scoring. I studied a lot of film, read the defense, worked to get my defenders in foul trouble, and got to the line. Coach Laird and my teammates trusted me with the ball and allowed me to score. I couldn’t have done it without them.”

Elliott’s success can be attributed to many factors, including his impressive athleticism, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to the sport. He is a natural leader on and off the court, and his teammates look up to him as a role model and mentor.

“I wanted to impact the younger players by showing them the work ethic it takes to play college basketball. I would go to class, and my professors would talk to me about the game and give me advice and encouragement. I’m grateful to God for the opportunities and abilities he gave me and my years at Panhandle State.”

As Elliott continues to lead the country in scoring, it is clear that he has a bright future ahead of him. Elliott’s leadership, athleticism, and commitment to the sport make him a role model for young athletes everywhere. Elliott is making his way through the process of playing in a basketball league overseas. He will inspire others to pursue their dreams and reach for greatness as he continues to excel on the court.