Lee's Defensive Prowess Earns Naismith Semifinalist Nod

In a testament to her dominant defensive presence on the hardwood, Kansas State University center Ayoka Lee has been named a semifinalist for the 2024 Naismith Women’s Defensive Player of the Year award, as announced by the Atlanta Tipoff Club. This marks the second time in her illustrious career that the 6'6" senior has earned this prestigious recognition, having previously been a semifinalist for the same award in the 2021-22 season.

Lee’s impact on the defensive end has been nothing short of remarkable this season, as she has anchored the Big 12’s top-ranked defense. Her imposing presence in the paint has resulted in 19 games with two or more blocked shots, including a season-high seven rejections against UCF on January 6th and Iowa State on February 14th. Her anticipation and quickness have also translated to five games with multiple steals, showcasing her well-rounded defensive skillset.

The Byron, Minnesota native’s defensive prowess has been a constant throughout her time at Kansas State, as this season marks her third consecutive campaign with 60 or more blocked shots. Her dominance on the defensive end earned her a well-deserved selection to the 2024 Big 12 All-Defensive Team.

While her defensive exploits have garnered significant attention, Lee’s offensive contributions have been equally impressive. Averaging 19.9 points per game on a blistering 62.1% shooting from the field, she ranks eighth in the nation and leads the Big 12 in field goal percentage. Her scoring prowess, coupled with her 8.4 rebounds and 2.83 blocks per game, have made her a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court.

Lee’s impact has extended far beyond the stat sheet, as she has consistently risen to the occasion in the biggest moments. She recorded her second career 20-20 double-double against Oral Roberts, pouring in 24 points, grabbing 21 rebounds, and swatting away five shots in a dominant performance. Her ability to take over games has been a driving force behind Kansas State’s success this season.

As the Wildcats prepare for the semifinals of the 2024 Phillips 66 Big 12 Women’s Basketball Championship, Lee’s defensive prowess will undoubtedly play a pivotal role. With her team facing off against Texas on Monday at 4 p.m. in Kansas City’s T-Mobile Center, all eyes will be on the senior sensation as she looks to lead her squad to victory and potentially cement her status as one of the nation’s premier defensive forces.