The Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference has announced that Gustavus freshman post Phil Sowden has been named Men’s Basketball Player of the Week for February 22-28. Sowden, a Brooklyn Park native (Park Center High School) averaged 18.5 points and 5.0 rebounds per game to help the Gusties defeat Bethel 76-59 in the MIAC Playoff semifinals and Macalester 75-69 in the MIAC Championship.
On Thursday against Bethel, Sowden was nine-of-ten from the field and three-of-five from the free throw line, for a career-high 22 points. On Saturday against Macalester, Sowden contributed 15 points and seven rebounds including several key baskets in the final minutes of the game to assure the Gusties of the victory. He played 30 minutes or more in both games. Sowden, who has started every game for the Gusties this season, is averaging 9.3 points and 4.2 rebounds per game.
The Gusties, who will open NCAA Tournament play on Saturday, are currently 22-5 overall.