[Women's Basketball] Jackson snags ninth career KCAC Women's Defensive Player of the Week honor

WICHITA, Kan. – Friends University sophomore forward Taylor Jackson has earned her sixth KCAC Women's Basketball Defensive Player of the Week award this season and ninth of her already historic career, the league office announced today (Jan. 30).

She was once again up to the task defensively for the Falcons, averaging a staggering 5.7 blocks in three outings this past week, highlighted by a seven-block effort in a key KCAC victory over Oklahoma Wesleyan University Saturday evening (Jan. 28).

Jackson also averaged 10.7 rebounds and eight defensive rebounds for the Falcons while playing her typical stifling defense inside.

Her contributions weren't limited to the defensive end, as she also went off for a season-high 25 points that included three crucial buckets in the paint that keyed an 8-2 run and gave the Falcons control in the first half. She then came through with another important score to stretch the lead to double-figures late in the game and effectively put it away.

The Houston, Texas native is tied for second in the KCAC in defensive rebounds (6.5) and continues to lead the nation with 3.7 blocks per game.

The Falcons' modern-era career leader in blocks, Jackson's superior interior play has helped the Falcons to a 13-9 overall record and a 9-7 KCAC mark this season.

"It's amazing what Taylor continues to do week after week," said Friends women's basketball head coach Dean Jaderston. "She completely changes the game at the defensive end. Last week she averaged six blocks a game (plus altered numerous shots) and 11 rebounds over three games. What also often gets unnoticed is that she has yet to foul out this year! She understands how to use her length and timing, and is a huge part of our success this year."

Jackson and the Falcons are next in action at Ottawa University Wednesday evening (Feb. 1 for a 6 pm tip-off in Ottawa, Kan.