KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Louisiana Christian University women's basketball sophomore forward/center Kylei Leblanc made history as she was named the NAIA's Defensive Player of the Week for her performance between Jan. 12-18.
 
Leblanc, a native of Lake Charles, averaged seven steals and three-and-a-half blocks per game while pulling down 11.5 rebounds per contest, eight of which came on the defensive glass. She also contributed offensively, averaging 18 points per game, and finished just two steals shy of a triple-double in Thursday's matchup against North Texas–Dallas.
 
Against the Trailblazers, Leblanc made her biggest impact on the defensive end, collecting 12 rebounds, including nine defensive boards, while adding eight steals and three blocks. She chipped in 20 points and three assists to complete the double-double performance.
 
She followed with another strong defensive outing in Saturday's win over University of the Southwest, registering 11 rebounds, seven on the defensive end, along with six steals and four blocks. LeBlanc also scored 16 points to help secure the Wildcats' victory.
 
The Wildcats (2-15, 1-10 RRAC) continue their four-game homestand on Thursday as Xavier makes the drive from New Orleans to Pineville. Tip-off of Thursday's contest against the Gold Nuggets (9-7, 6-5 RRAC) is set for 5:30 p.m. on Gene Rushing Court at H.O. West Fieldhouse.
 
*The NAIA contributed to this report*