BALTIMORE, Md. (March 10, 2025) -- Senior forward Daniel Akitoby's exceptional defensive prowess has once again been recognized, earning him his third Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Week award this season. This latest accolade is a testament to Akitoby's unwavering consistency and profound influence on his team's defensive strategy. Throughout the week he was as a pivotal player and a formidable presence inside the paint.
The 6-foot-9 forward recorded his ninth double-double of the season with 15 points and 15 rebounds in a tough overtime loss against crosstown rival Coppin State while adding two blocks and a steal. Akitoby registered 12 points,10 rebounds, two steals and a block in the Bears victory against Delaware State last Monday during 'Senior Night' night inside Hill Field House.
Akitoby has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the league, particularly on the boards. In his 20 starts, he's not only contributing offensively with 9.3 points per game, but he's absolutely dominating the rebounding category. His 7.5 rebounds per game rank him No. 1 in the league, a key factor in Morgan's impressive team rebounding stats. The team currently ranks No. 2 in overall rebounds (37.4 avg) and boasts the top spot in defensive rebounds (25.0 avg), largely thanks to Akitoby's relentless effort. Opponents also have to be wary of his rim protection, as 'Blockitoby' has amassed an impressive 33 blocked shots, placing him at No. 5 in the league.
As the Bears gear up for their MEAC Tournament Quarterfinals matchup against the formidable No. 4 seeded Howard Bison, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on Akitoby. His performance is poised to be a critical factor in Morgan State's aspirations for a championship run. Toppling a higher seed like Howard requires consistent and impactful play, and Akitoby's contributions in scoring, rebounding, and defense will be essential to the Bears' success.
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ABOUT MORGAN
Morgan State University, founded in 1867, is a Carnegie-classified high research (R2) institution offering nearly 140 academic programs leading to degrees from the baccalaureate to the doctorate. As Maryland's Preeminent Public Urban Research University, and the only university to have its entire campus designated as a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Morgan serves a multiethnic and multiracial student body and seeks to ensure that the doors of higher education are opened as wide as possible to as many as possible. For more information about Morgan State University, visit www.morgan.edu.
