BENNINGTON, Vt. - Southern Vermont College men's basketball freshman forward Deandre Kennedy-Ebron (Albany, NY/CBA HS) garnered the New England Collegiate Conference Rookie of the Week award. Kennedy-Ebron finished the game against Vassar one rebound shy of his first collegiate double-double. He finished with 22 points, nine rebounds and three blocks.

Kennedy-Ebron notched the game high 22 points in a tough battle against Vassar as the Mountaineers fell 65-62 Saturday.

"Deandre's collegiate debut was impressive, both in terms of the numbers and his poise," said head coach Michael McDonough. "We're proud for him."

SVC lost to Vassar last year by nearly 30 points (84-57) making Saturday's game, despite the loss, a huge improvement. It also provides some confidence coming out of the season opener.

"There is no go-to man (this season) and anybody on any given day can light it up," said Kennedy-Ebron about the team. He says if the team can, "work harder, practice, and stay focused," they will do well in the Conference.

Southern Vermont has their sights set on the Williams College Tournament this weekend. They play Williams Friday night at 8:00 p.m.

Kennedy-Ebron believes that, "less turnovers (19 against Vassar) will be a key factor for this weekend's tournament."