University of Kentucky coach Orlando ?Tubby? Smith was named the 2005 Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year by the Associated Press Tuesday. It marks the third time the group has honored Smith (1998 and 2003), and the second time in the last three years. Smith also was named the district coach of the year by the United States Basketball Writers Association.

Kentucky?s Chuck Hayes, Kelenna Azubuike and Patrick Sparks also were honored as All-SEC selections by the Associated Press. Hayes was named to the first team, Azubuike to the second team and Sparks represented the Cats on the third team. Hayes also was named to the USBWA All-District 4 team Tuesday.

LSU?s Brandon Bass was named the SEC Player of the Year in the AP vote, while his teammate, Glenn Davis was the SEC Newcomer of the Year.

The league office will announce its postseason awards, voted on by the conference?s 12 coaches, Wednesday.