Zay Dyer Secures Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year

Troy University senior Zay Dyer has been named the Sun Belt Conference Defensive Player of the Year as announced on Monday. This accolade highlights Dyer’s outstanding performance throughout the season, marking her as the first Troy player to receive an individual conference award since 2021 and the first to secure the Defensive Player of the Year title since 2019.

Remarkable Statistics and Achievements

Dyer’s impressive season includes leading the nation with a total of 22 double-doubles. Her remarkable consistency is evidenced by a streak of 14 consecutive double-doubles to conclude the regular season. Currently, she averages 14.4 points, 13.1 rebounds, 1.5 blocks, 1.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game.

In terms of national rankings, Dyer’s total rebounds place her second in the country, while her rebounds per game average ranks third nationally. Additionally, she leads the Sun Belt Conference in these categories. Dyer has also set the all-time Division I rebound record at Troy, and her 44 blocks this season are tied for the ninth-most in Troy’s Division I history.

Joining Dyer in earning All-Conference honors are her teammates Fortuna Ngnawo and Emani Jenkins. Ngnawo received All-Sun Belt Second-Team recognition with averages of 15.1 points, 10.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.2 blocks per game. Jenkins was honored as All-Sun Belt Third-Team, averaging 12.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and one steal per game.

Coach’s Perspective

Head coach Chanda Rigby expressed pride in her players’ achievements, stating, “With a 14-team conference, it’s really an honor to have three players on a 15-person all-conference team. I want to congratulate Zay, Fortuna, and Emani for the postseason honors they earned.”

This recognition not only showcases Dyer’s individual talent and hard work but also reflects the strength and competitiveness of the Troy women’s basketball program. As the team prepares for postseason play, Dyer’s contributions will be critical in their pursuit of further success.