Feb. 8, 2016
CHICAGO -- For the third consecutive week, a UIC newcomer was recognized by the Horizon League when Michael Kolawole (Rowlett, Texas/Rowlett) was named the conference's Freshman of the Week on Monday (Feb. 8).
Kolawole scored a career-high 16 points Saturday in his team's lone game of the week against Valparaiso. The native Texan was one of three Flames to score in double figures and he shot a squad-best 45.5 percent from the field, while sinking five-of-six attempts (83.3 percent) from the free-throw line. He also added three rebounds in 31 minutes of action against the Crusaders.
Over the last five games, all starts, Kolawole is averaging 9.4 points and 3.6 rebounds per game for UIC. He has been the team's second-leading scorer in conference play this season with nearly nine points per contest through 11 games.
Kolawole becomes the second Flame to be recognized with a weekly honor by the Horizon League this season. His classmate Dikembe Dixson has been named the Freshman of the Week a league-best six times. UIC is the only team to have two different players win the conference's weekly award for newcomers this season; Kolawole is the fifth different freshman in the Horizon League to be recognized this season.
UIC will play its fourth consecutive home game on Thursday, Feb. 11, when the Wright State Raiders visit the UIC Pavilion for a 7 p.m. game. Tickets are still available and can be obtained by calling 312-413-UIC1 (8421) or visiting Ticketmaster today.
