Eight blocks in two games
MARQUETTE, Mich. – After anchoring Northern Michigan on the defensive end in a pair of crucial road victories, Northern Michigan’s Dylan Kuehl has been named the GLIAC Defensive Player of the Week.
Kuehl totaled eight blocks over two games, recording four in each contest, while delivering timely defensive plays that directly impacted both outcomes. His rim protection helped the Wildcats secure a 77-74 comeback win at Lake Superior State and an 86-77 victory at Saginaw Valley State.
In Thursday’s win at Lake Superior State, Kuehl finished with 31 points, 11 rebounds, and four blocks, shooting 11-for-17 (64.7%) from the floor. While his scoring kept Northern within striking distance, it was his defense that defined the closing moments. With the game tied at 72-72 and just 35 seconds remaining, Kuehl rotated over to erase a driving layup attempt, preserving the tie and setting the stage for the Wildcats’ go-ahead three on the ensuing possession.
He followed with another impactful defensive showing Saturday at Saginaw Valley State. He added 13 points and nine rebounds, while again swatting away four shots. All four blocks came in the second half, halting Cardinal rallies and mirroring the late-game defensive presence he displayed on Thursday.
For the season, Kuehl continues to be one of the GLIAC’s most complete two-way players. He ranks third in the conference in scoring (19.2 ppg), ninth in rebounds (6.2 rpg), fourth in field goal percentage (54.2%), and fifth in blocks (1.2 bpg).
