OKLAHOMA CITY -- John Brown University sophomore libero Jillian Blackman has earned Sooner Athletic Defensive Player of the Week honors, the conference office announced Monday (March 8) afternoon.
Blackman, landing her first-career weekly honor, has been an integral part of the Golden Eagles back line and its 4-1 start, averaging 23 digs per contest - pacing the Sooner Athletic Conference.
"I'm extremely happy for and proud of Jillian," head coach Ken Carver said. "Not only was her performance on the court outstanding this week, but it has been at a consistently high level since our season began. Since posting a career night against Mid-America Christian, she has remained consistent over 20 digs per match. She's our leading passer and she provides ball-control skill, and she's also a very aggressive and effective server.
"Jillian has put in a lot of extra work before and after practice to help elevate her game this season, and the results are definitely paying off for her. And for our team, as well."
In a four-set setback at No. 16 Oklahoma City on Wednesday (March 3), she posted 22 digs and added three assists. The native of Stilwell, Kan. then turned in a performance of 22 digs and nine helpers in a sweep of Southwestern Christian (Okla.) on Friday (March 5) night. On the week, opponents hit just .160 against the Golden Eagle defense. She also passed at a .980 clip (49-of-50).
The Golden Eagles hit the road Goodwell, Okla. for its next Sooner Athletic outing - scheduled for a 6 p.m. first serve inside Anchor D Arena against Oklahoma Panhandle State.
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