BALTIMORE, MD - Marlon Lewis of Notre Dame of Maryland University was named Defensive Player of the Year in the United East Conference, capping a season of dominance on the hardwood for the Gators. Joining Lewis on the All-Conference first team is Ricardo Ross as the two represent the first two men's basketball Gators to ever be named to the first team.

Lewis, a 6-5 junior forward from Havre de Grace, MD, anchored Notre Dame's defense by guarding multiple positions and altering shots around the rim. He averaged about 18.0 points, 6.5 rebounds and 1.3 blocks per game this season while serving as a consistent interior presence on that end of the floor. He accumulated 40 blocks on the season, 26 more than the next closest player in the conference. His ability to disrupt opponents and protect the paint made him a clear choice for the league's top defensive honor.

In addition to Lewis' recognition, junior guard Ricardo Ross was named to the United East All-Conference First Team for his scoring and all-around play. Ross led the Gators with about 15.1 points per game and also led the team in three pointers made (49), steals (50) and assists (78).

Their efforts helped the Gators to a 16 win season, finishing the year with a 10-3 conference record in the best regular season in program history.

Lewis becomes the first player in program history to receive the league's Defensive Player of the Year award, the first major award for a Gator, while Ross' first-team all-conference selection underscores his role as a cornerstone of Notre Dame's offense this season.