Kansas City, Mo. - The MIAA has named Darius Dawson this week's men's basketball Athlete of the Week, announced by the conference Monday afternoon. This is the program's first MIAA Athlete of the Week award since Cam Martin earned it on February 8, 2021. 

Last week, Dawson helped the Lions to an undefeated week with wins over Lincoln and Central Missouri, averaging 24.5 points per game, 7.0 rebounds per game, and 3.0 blocks per game while shooting 56.5% (13-23) from the field and 83.3% (20-24) from the free throw line. Against the Blue Tigers of Lincoln, Dawson dropped 27 points with 7 rebounds and 2 blocks, making 14-16 free throws. On Saturday, he scored 22 points on 7-12 shooting from the field, snagging another 7 rebounds and making 4 blocks. 

Dawson is leading the team in scoring with 14.3 points per game and rebounding with 6.4 per contest. From the field he is shooting 55.7% and leads the team with 29 blocks. 

The Lions will play host to the Pittsburg State Gorillas in their next competition, taking place on Saturday, February 17 at 3:30pm.