BROCKPORT, NY – On Monday, February 9th, the Empire 8 Conference announced that freshman
Pharell Aybar has been named the Men's Basketball Rookie of the Week. This marks the second consecutive week and the fifth time this season that the Washington Heights, NY native has captured the conference's weekly freshman accolade.
Aybar served as the high-octane engine for a Golden Eagles squad that has now surged to a four-game winning streak. Over a perfect 3-0 week, the freshman showcased elite versatility, averaging 16.7 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists, providing the steady playmaking and high-intensity defense that have become his hallmarks.
The week reached its peak during a statement victory over St. John Fisher. Aybar turned in a dominant, career-high 29-point performance, shooting a clinical 12-of-19 from the floor. He paired his scoring output with 5 rebounds and 3 assists, while adding 2 blocks and 3 steals to lead Brockport past the Cardinals.
Aybar's impact was felt just as strongly earlier in the week as a primary floor general. In a Tuesday win over SUNY Geneseo, he orchestrated the offense with 7 assists to go along with 13 points. He followed that up by stuffing the stat sheet in a victory over Nazareth, recording 8 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and a block.
With five Rookie of the Week selections now under his belt, Aybar has solidified his role as a backcourt anchor for the Green and Gold. On the season, he is now averaging 10.3 PPG on 44.2% shooting, while contributing 4.0 RPG, a team-high 3.1 APG, and 1.6 SPG. His ability to balance efficient scoring with elite offensive facilitation has been the driving force behind Brockport's momentum as they climb the Empire 8 standings heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
Brockport will look to extend its winning streak as they return home to the Jim and John Vlogianitis Gymnasium to host SUNY Poly on Friday, February 13th, at 7:30 PM.