PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland — After an impressive showing in the Hawks heart-stopping victory over North Carolina Central on Monday evening, Tuka Nugent was named the Defensive Player of the Week in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.

The Newburgh, New York native was essential to the Hawks comeback bid, nabbing a career-high six steals throughout the game. Nugent provided on the offensive end as well, tied for the team-high with 13 points on the night.

The award-winning effort was his eighth multi-steal game of the season and only serves to punctuate his recent hot streak on the defensive end. Nugent has swiped 13 possessions over the last five games, including a three-game stretch from January 7 – January 14 that saw him tally multiple steals in each contest.

"Tuka is an incredible defender that does a great job of helping our team execute the game plan," Hawks coach Jason Crafton said. "He takes charges, rebounds and communicates at a high level."

Nugent has been a key reserve for UMES all season, contributing 29 assists (third on the Hawks) while averaging 5.6 points and 2.4 rebounds.

"He is well deserving of this honor and we are so proud of him," Crafton said.

The Hawks are back in action on Saturday, January 28 when they host Coppin State as part of a men's and women's doubleheader.