Grand Rapids, Mich. — There's being locked in defensively… and then there's Paige Guernsey-level locked in. The Aquinas senior turned heads across the WHAC this week, earning Defensive Player of the Week honors after a performance that reminded everyone why she's one of the league's toughest, grittiest, and most complete players. Guernsey didn't just anchor the Saints' defense — she owned the floor.

A 5'8" senior from Saranac, Guernsey has been a staple of consistency since arriving at Aquinas in 2022 as an Elementary Education major. Already a 2024–25 Second Team All-Conference honoree, she has built her career on doing a little bit of everything — scoring, defending, rebounding, leading — whatever the Saints need. That all-around excellence was on full display in AQ's 67-55 victory over UM-Dearborn, where she racked up 22 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, and three steals in 36 minutes. It was the kind of stat line that doesn't just tell a story — it demands attention.

Head Coach Brian Morris praised Guernsey for the complete player she has become and the steady presence she provides.
"Paige is everything you want in a two-way player," Morris said. "She defends, rebounds, makes big plays, and leads with her voice and her work ethic. She's the heartbeat of what we're trying to build here, and our team feeds off the energy she brings every single day."

Off the court, Guernsey is known for her upbeat personality and unique quirks — including the fun fact that she can juggle — and she often recalls attending women's basketball games growing up as one of her favorite memories. Choosing Aquinas was simple for her: a great fit, close to home, and a community she wanted to be part of.

With the conference recognition now added to her already impressive resume, Guernsey and the Saints are back in action on Wednesday as they travel to Rochester Hills to take on the Warriors of Rochester Christian. And with Guernsey leading the charge, it's easy to be reminded once again — it's a great day to be a Saint.