SLU’s Clergeot earns Southland Player of the Week honors

HAMMOND, La. – Southeastern Louisiana’s Keon Clergeot was tabbed Southland Conference Men’s Basketball Player of the Week, the league office announced Monday.

Clergeot (6-1, 190, G, Sr.) tied a career-high scoring 25 points in a 77-70 win Wednesday over Grambling on the road. The UMass transfer was 6-for-11 from the field, including 5-for-7 from the three-point line and 8-for-12 from the free-throw line.

“He’s so deserving of this,” said second-year SLU head basketball coach David Kiefer. “The thing about Keon is that he’s the ultimate competitor. I know that he’s more concerned about the team’s success than individual accolades which makes the award that much more special.”

The Winter Haven, Florida native also hit a clutch three-pointer with the game tied at 67-67 to give the Lions the lead for good. The win snapped SLU’s three-game losing streak to Grambling.

“I’m thankful for my teammates that helped put me in position to get the award,” said Clergeot. “But for me it’s just all about the team winning and staying humble.”

Clergeot leads the Lions (2-6) in scoring (12.4 ppg), free throws made (40) and three-pointers made through eight games. The Auburn High School grad is also second on the team in assists and steals.

Monday marks the first time a SLU player has received the award since March 4, 2018 when Southeastern’s Marlain Veal won the honor.

The Lions and Clergeot will be back in action Tuesday night when they face Lamar on the road at 7 p.m. in a non-conference affair.