GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — After a breakout weekend that showcased his dominance on both ends of the court, Aquinas redshirt sophomore forward Caden Pokorzynski has been named the WHAC Defensive Player of the Week, as announced by the conference office on Monday afternoon.

Pokorzynski was a force inside for the Saints, recording a double-double in both games over the weekend. He averaged 21.5 points, 14.5 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, 1 steal, and 1 assist per game, anchoring the Aquinas frontcourt with an impressive combination of power and poise. His impact was felt in all areas of the floor as the Saints continued to build momentum early in the 2025–26 campaign.

Standing 6-foot-7, the Rockford, Michigan native continues to develop into one of the WHAC's premier post players. A Business and Sports Management major, Pokorzynski starred at Rockford High School, where he was a two-time First-Team All-Conference selection and helped guide the Rams to multiple conference and district titles. Since arriving at Aquinas, he's earned Second-Team All-Conference honors and become a key contributor in Coach Ryan Bertoia's system.

This marks the first WHAC Player of the Week honor of the season for Pokorzynski and the first weekly award earned by the Saints' men's basketball program this year.

Aquinas student-athletes have continued to make their mark across the WHAC Player of the Week awards, with multiple Saints from various programs earning recognition this fall. The consistency of success across the department highlights the hard work, discipline, and pride that defines Aquinas Athletics. And with Pokorzynski's latest accolade added to the list—once again, it's a great day to be a Saint.