CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Longwood junior forward Otaifo Esenabhalu has been named Big South Conference Co-Player of the Week in women's basketball, the league announced on Monday.
 
Esenabhalu scored a career-high-tying 16 points and pulled down 10 rebounds for her fifth double-double of the season as the Lancers defeated UNCW, 98-72, at home Sunday for their third straight win and fifth in six games.
 
The Valdosta, Ga., native shot 7-for-9 from the field and 2-of-2 from the free-throw line in 17 minutes off the bench. She corralled seven offensive boards to help secure her 14th career double-double, and she also dished two assists on the day.
 
Esenabhalu is currently 20th in the NCAA in double-doubles this season.
 
Through 12 games off the bench this season, Esenabhalu is averaging 8.4 points and 8.3 rebounds per game.
 
The Big South weekly honor is the third of Esenabhalu's career as she earned Freshman of the Week plaudits on Nov. 20, 2023 and Jan. 29, 2024.
 
Longwood (9-4) opens Big South play Jan. 3 at home against Presbyterian. Tip-off is slated for 2 p.m., on ESPN+.
 
#GoWood #HorsePower