BIRMINGHAM, Ala. ^__ The Southwestern Athletic Conference announced its 2022-23 All-SWAC Men's Basketball teams and individual award winners on Tuesday evening. The all-conference honors were voted on by the league's coaches and sports information directors.
 
Bulldog center Olisa Blaise Akonobi was named SWAC Defensive Player of the Year for his play this season, as he was a key. cog to the Alabama A&M defensive unit, leading the conference in blocks at 2.0 per game.
 
The graduate transfer blocked at least one shot in 22 games on the year, along with recording multiple blocks on 12 separate occasions, including a season-high six blocks three times, against Illinois, Arkansas-Pine Bluff, and Alabama State.
 
The Nigerian native also currently averages 7.8 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, while shooting a team-high 57.7 percent from the floor.
 
Akonobi and the Bulldogs return to action on Thursday night inside Bartow Arena for their opening game of the SWAC Tournament against Southern. Tip-off is set for 8:30 p.m. All games of the tournament will be streamed on ESPN+.

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