Polk State College sophomore guard Eric Dailey was named the Florida College System Activities Association Player of the Week Tuesday after helping Polk State Basketball open the season with four consecutive victories. The Winter Haven native has led or shared the team scoring lead in each of the first four contests. Dailey was an All-Citrus Conference performer the previous season.
Dailey delivered two strong performances during the Daytona State College Shootout. He scored a season-high 30 points on 10-for-18 shooting, grabbed nine rebounds, added five assists and recorded three steals in Polk State’s 100-92 victory over Motlow State Community College on Nov. 6. Polk State overcame an 18-point deficit in the win.
Dailey followed with another productive outing in Polk State’s 72-62 victory over Wake Technical Community College on Nov. 7. He shot 14-for-18 from the free-throw line, including the two attempts that put Polk State ahead for good. Across the two games, Dailey averaged 25 points, eight rebounds, 4.5 assists, 2.5 steals and one block per game.
For the season, Dailey ranked second in the FCSAA in scoring at 22.8 points per game. His 3.3 steals per game ranked fifth in the association. The award recognized an all-around stretch that helped Polk State remain unbeaten through its first four games.
Dailey’s impact extends beyond scoring
Polk State head coach Marreese Speights said Dailey has continued to develop as a leader and defender. “Eric has grown as a leader and wants the ball in his hands when the game is on the line,” Speights said. “We knew Eric was an outstanding offensive player, but he has taken his defense to the next level.” The coach’s assessment matches Dailey’s production in scoring, rebounding, playmaking and steals during the two victories.
Polk State Director of Athletics Randy Lee pointed to Dailey’s connection to Winter Haven. “I’m really proud of Eric for the strides he’s made this season as a player,” Lee said. “We have tremendous athletes all throughout our department, but it’s always exciting to see a local talent stay home and to continue to shine in front of his friends and family.” Dailey’s award adds to his standing as a returning All-Citrus Conference performer.
Polk State President Anastasios Kamoutsas also credited Dailey’s preparation and continued development. “Eric’s success is a reflection of his hard work, discipline, and commitment to continuously improving his game,” Kamoutsas said. “We are proud to see Eric and his teammates representing Polk State at such a high level and wish them continued success as the season continues.” The recognition came as Polk State prepared for its next two games in West Plains, Missouri.
Polk State schedule continues in Missouri
Polk State is scheduled to face Missouri State University-West Plains at 8 p.m. Eastern time Friday, Nov. 13, with the game listed for 7 p.m. Central time. The team is then scheduled to play No. 24 Moberly Area Community College at 1 p.m. Eastern time Saturday, Nov. 14, or noon Central time. Those games represent Polk State’s next opportunity to build on its 4-0 start and Dailey’s award-winning production.
FSB Take
Dailey’s honor reflects a complete contribution rather than scoring alone, with his two-game stretch including rebounds, assists, steals and defensive impact. Polk State has also shown that it can respond to adversity after overcoming an 18-point deficit against Motlow State Community College. The upcoming Missouri games will provide the next test of that early-season formula against Missouri State University-West Plains and No. 24 Moberly Area Community College.
Source: Original report