McLean County Times

Seniors Nick Roper and Hakim Williams from Illinois Wesleyan University have been recognized for their performance in men's basketball. Both players were named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches All-District 8 Team and the D3hoops.com All-Region squads, as announced on March 18. Additionally, freshman Josh Fridman was honored as D3hoops.com's Region 8 Rookie of the Year.

Nick Roper has achieved NABC All-District status for the second consecutive year, while this is Hakim Williams' first time receiving the honor. In addition, D3hoops selected Roper as a First Team All-Region pick, with Williams being named to the third team.

Roper had an impressive season, leading his team with an average of 15.3 points per game. He also contributed 5.6 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game, shooting 48.1 percent from the field and 34.1 percent from three-point range. His performance earned him a unanimous First Team All-College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin selection.

Williams also had a notable senior season, scoring an average of 10.4 points per game along with team-leading figures in assists (3.3) and steals (1.7). He shot 44.1 percent from the field and excelled at free throws with a rate of 75.2 percent.

Freshman Josh Fridman made his mark as well by stepping into the role of starting point guard during his rookie season. As CCIW Newcomer of the Year, he averaged 9.2 points per game with significant contributions in assists and turnovers.

These players were integral to Illinois Wesleyan University's successful season that included winning the CCIW Tournament Championship and reaching the Sweet Sixteen in the NCAA Tournament.