KANSAS CITY, Mo.— For the first time since at least 2011, a Montreat College men's basketball player was named a national athlete of the week. According to a release from the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) on Tuesday, Owen Stewart was tabbed as the latest NAIA Men's Basketball Defensive Player of the Week.
 
Just one day after claiming Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) Men's Basketball Defensive Player of the Week recognition, Stewart added another accolade to his resume. The freshman helped the Cavaliers go 3-0 in conference play last week, with all three victories occurring inside McAlister Gymnasium.
 
Individually, Stewart dominated the glass, pulling down 32 rebounds for an average of 10.7 per contest. The Simpsonville, S.C. native also made game-altering plays on the defensive end of the floor, racking up nine steals and one block. In a 105-99 overtime triumph over Bluefield University, Stewart aided the Cavs in sealing their senior day win with a career-high 18 rebounds and a career-best five steals.
 
Stewart also provided support on the offensive end of the floor, pouring in 11.0 points per game and dishing out five assists.
 
For the official NAIA Men's Basketball Defensive Player of the Week release, click here.
 
Stewart and the Montreat College men's basketball team begin their final week of the regular season on Wednesday at Bryan College. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. in Dayton, Tenn.