2025 ACAC Men's Basketball Defensive Players of The Year
Edmonton, AB (February 26, 2025) –
North Male Defensive Player of the Year | JACK SMILSKI | Augustana Vikings:
The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) is pleased to announce Jack Smilski of the University of Alberta-Augustana Vikings has been selected as the 2024-2025 ACAC Men’s Basketball North Defensive Player of the Year.
After narrowly missing a spot in the championships, the Augustana Men’s Basketball team secured a fifth-place finish in the league with a 5-15 record. Jack Smilski remained a defensive powerhouse, leading the league in rebounds per game throughout the season. His outstanding performance earned him his second All-Conference selection and made history as the first men’s player to receive the ACAC Defensive Player of the Year award.
"Jack exemplifies everything it means to be a part of Vikings Athletics. His attention to detail in all facets of his game and his strength with rebounding has been incredible to witness while leading the ACAC in rebounds per game for two consecutive seasons. On top of all of this, during his time as a Viking, Jack has invested a great deal of time working with community partners such as the Camrose Special Olympics basketball program as their head coach. It is great to see all of his hard work noticed by opposing coaches and peers." - David Ritz
Jack is from Cochrane, Alberta in his fourth year of studies working towards his Bachelor of Management.
This prestigious award will be recognized at the 2025 ACAC Men’s Basketball Championship hosted by the Briercrest Clippers in Caronport, Saskatchewan from February 27 - March 1, 2025.
South Male Defensive Player of the Year | WILL TONG | SAIT Trojans:
The Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) is pleased to announce Will Tong of the SAIT Trojans Men’s Basketball has been selected as the 2024-2025 ACAC Men’s Basketball South Defensive Player of the Year.
Will Tong has had an outstanding season with the SAIT Trojans Men's Basketball team, quickly establishing himself as a key contributor. Over the course of the regular season, he averaged 10.0 points per game, 5.9 rebounds per game, and recorded 20 blocks. His presence on both ends of the floor played a crucial role in the Trojans securing a playoff berth. Will’s ability to dominate defensively, with 78 defensive rebounds, combined with his scoring and rim protection, has made him a standout player for the team. His consistent performance and leadership have been essential in driving the Trojans’ success this season.
"On and off the court, Will brings an energy to the Trojans that is completely his own. His exceptional basketball IQ, combined with his on-court talent, makes him a standout player and a truly deserving recipient of this award. We are proud to have Will as a Trojan and couldn’t be more thrilled to see his hard work, determination, and resilience recognized. Congratulations, Will!" said Lauren Kucera, Manager of Athletics.
A native of Calgary, Will has shown immense growth in just his second year, becoming a leader on the team. His work ethic and ability to elevate his teammates' performance have made him a valuable asset. As the ACAC South Defensive Player of the Year, Will's work ethic continues to set a high standard for the team. With his leadership and ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball, Will looks forward to helping his team make a deep run in the ACAC Championships.
This prestigious award will be recognized at the 2025 ACAC Men’s Basketball Championship hosted by the Briercrest Clippers in Caronport, Saskatchewan from February 27 - March 1, 2025.
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About the ACAC: The ACAC is the governing body for intercollegiate athletics in Alberta. Its mission is to provide competitive collegiate sport experiences, promote academic achievement and be a leader of sport development in Canada.
For more information on the ACAC, please visit our website: www.acac.ab.ca
For additional information, contact:
Mark Kosak, Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference
Chief Executive Officer
403-875-7329
markk@acac.ab.ca
Kayla Beers, Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
kaylab@acac.ab.ca