Atkinson Named CIAA Men's Basketball Defensive Player of the Year
CHARLOTTE, NC = Claflin University sophomore forward
Alex Atkinson was named the 2025-26 Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) Men's Basketball Defensive Player of the :Year, Sunday evening. The announcement was made at the 2026 CIAA Tip-Off Ceremony at the Baltimore Convention Center.
While the 2025-26 Claflin Panthers have made defense a hallmark for the team this season, it was Atkinson's efforts that pushed things forward for the Panthers. Atkinson's efforts show up on every boxscore as he has some of the most impressive season statistics in the conference. He finished the regular season ranked second in the CIAA in rebounding with 207 total rebounds and averaging 5.4 rebounds per game. He is also one of the leading shot blockers in the CIAA with 56 total blocks. On the offensive side of the ball, Atkinson was equally impressive. He finished the regular season with 306 total points and averaging 13.3 points per game. He also leads the CIAA in field goal percentage, shooting 59.6% (130-of-218) from the floor this season.
Atkinson also had several standout performances throughout the season. He recorded nine double-digit rebounding games throughout the season and three games with at least three blocked shots. He highlighted his defensive effort with seven blocked shots sat Fayetteville State. Throughout the season, he recorded seven double-double games, including a career-best 24 points with 21 rebounds at West Virginia State.
With the honor secured, Atkinson and the Panthers will begin their quest for the 2026 CIAA Men's Basketball Championship Tournament. The team will begin play on Wednesday. For more information on Panthers basketball, contact the Claflin University Office of Athletics Media Relations at (803) 535-5548 or log on to www.athletics.claflin.edu.
