KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Celina Blount of Taylor (Ind.) has been named the NAIA Women's Basketball Defensive Player of the Week. The sophomore forward from Liberty Township, Ohio, has been instrumental in maintaining the Trojans' undefeated streak, with remarkable defensive performances in two consecutive games.

Blount nearly achieved a triple-double in Taylor's commanding victory over RV Olivet Nazarene (Ill.). In the contest, she scored 14 points and grabbed 16 rebounds, with 12 of those rebounds coming from the defensive glass. Her defensive efforts were further highlighted by her tying the school's single-game blocks record for the second time in just three games, with eight blocks against ONU. Her efficiency was evident as she shot 75% from the field, making six of her eight attempts, and went a perfect 1-for-1 from beyond the arc and the free-throw line.

Continuing her outstanding form, Blount contributed significantly to the Trojans' road win at IU Columbus (Ind.). She posted 15 points, 10 rebounds, and added another block to her tally. Despite a tougher shooting night, going 4-for-10 from the field, Blount's resilience was evident as she remained perfect from the charity stripe, knocking down all seven of her free throws.

Overall, across the two games, Blount averaged 14.5 points, 14 rebounds, and 5.5 blocks per game while maintaining a perfect free-throw percentage. She anchored the defense with 21 out of her 28 total rebounds being on the defensive end in the two contests.