GREENVILLE, S.C. — Belmont Abbey senior point guard Riley James was named the Conference Carolinas Defensive Player of the Week by the league office Monday afternoon.

James finished the lone game the Crusaders in double figures scoring with 11 points while adding six rebounds (five defensive), three assists and three steals in a 44-28 win at Young Harris Saturday.

She was also a key part of the historic defensive effort for the Abbey. Based on records available, the 28 points allowed is the fewest allowed by Belmont Abbey since a 71-28 win over Coker back on January 13, 2007. Additionally, the 28 points is the fewest allowed by the Crusaders dating back to the 1993-94 season.

Saturday's contest featured a scoreless third quarter as the Crusaders held the Mountain Lions scoreless for just under 13 minutes of game play from the final minute of the first half to the 7:44 mark of the fourth quarter.

This is the first Conference Player of the Week honor that a Crusader has earned this season from the league office.

Belmont Abbey returns to action Saturday as the Crusaders continue Northwest Division play at Converse on Saturday. Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m. in Spartanburg, S.C.