Freshman forward Isaiah Jackson was awarded SEC freshman of the week for his excellent play in Kentucky’s two big road victories last week. It was his first time winning the award this season.

In the last three games, all of which have been wins for the Cats, Jackson has averaged 16 points and nine rebounds along with two blocks. His presence defensively has been huge for UK all season ranking in the top 15 in with 2.7 blocks per game and third in the country in block percentage (13.2%). The freshman’s offensive game also has grown especially in these last few outings, setting a career-high in points in two of the three matchups.

It is the second time a UK freshman has been named freshman of the week this season, as forward Dontaie Allen earned the recognition after a 27-point performance at Mississippi State. The Cats now are 8-13 overall and 7-7 in the SEC with some momentum that could carry them to an SEC Tournament championship and an automatic bid into March Madness.