Sword tabbed SEC Freshman of the Week

For the second time this season, Craig Sword has been recognized for his efforts on the court.

 Monday, the guard from Montgomery, Ala., was the tabbed the SEC Freshman of the Week after averaging 19.5 points, 4.5 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals against South Carolina and Auburn.

 Against the Tigers, he drained the game-winning free throws in a 74-71 overtime victory.

 “I’m really proud of Craig,” MSU coach Rick Ray said. “He’s worked so hard and is very deserving of this award.”

 Sword garnered the same accolade the week of Jan. 14 after helping guide the Bulldogs past South Carolina and Georgia to open SEC play.

 On the year, Sword is averaging a team-high 10.3 points and 2.9 rebounds and is second with 48 steals.

 “It’s an honor to get this award,” the 6-foot-3, 189-pound guard said. “But a lot of credit has to be given to my teammates as well. I can’t do the things I do without them.”

 MSU returns to action at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday in the opening round of the SEC Tournament against South Carolina in Nashville.