AZUSA, Calif. — When Azusa Pacific needed a spark to keep their momentum alive, they didn't just get a lift—they got a takeover.
After a week of pure dominance on both ends of the floor, the PacWest Conference has officially named APU's Shad Thomas the Player of the Week. The 6-foot-7 forward-center from Union Island, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, turned in a pair of performances that proved he is one of the most versatile threats in the West Region.

The Statement Win

The centerpiece of Thomas' award-winning week came in a high-stakes road environment at Westmont. Coming off the bench, the Catawba transfer anchored the Cougars to a gritty 70-66 victory.
Thomas was everywhere, recording a monstrous stat line that read like a video game:

• 21 Points
• 15 Rebounds (including 5 crucial offensive boards)
• 5 Steals
• 4 Blocks

By controlling the glass and patrolling the paint, Thomas handed the Warriors just their second conference loss of the season. His ability to create second-chance opportunities and disrupt passing lanes was the difference-maker in a game decided by just two possessions.

Efficiency at Its Finest

Thomas didn't slow down in the Cougars' follow-up contest against Nobel. In a display of clinical efficiency, the big man logged just 16 minutes but made every second count. He went a perfect 5-for-5 from the field, finishing with 10 points and helping APU cruise to a blowout win.
The two-game stretch showcased why the he is such a vital piece of the Cougars' rotation. Whether he's bruising in the post for double-doubles or providing instant offense, Thomas has become the engine behind APU's current three-game winning streak.