NEW PALTZ, NY – Isaiah Rivera of the State University of New York New Paltz men's basketball team has been named the New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) Defensive Player of the Week, becoming the first Hawk in program history to earn the distinction, as announced by the conference office Monday. 

The junior wing made his presence felt on both ends of the floor, helping SUNY New Paltz open its 2026-27 campaign with consecutive victories over Brooklyn College and Eastern Connecticut State. Across the two contests, Rivera totaled 28 points, 15 rebounds, five assists, five steals and four blocks while shooting 50 percent from the field and 40 percent from beyond the arc. 

Rivera opened his season with an all-around performance in the Hawks' 79-73 victory over Brooklyn College Friday night in the Hawk Center. The Bronx native finished with 10 points, seven rebounds, five assists and three steals, helping SUNY New Paltz overcome a one-point halftime deficit to secure its season-opening victory. Rivera shot 4-for-7 from the floor, including a three-pointer, while collecting two offensive rebounds and five defensive boards. 

The following evening, Rivera elevated his performance in a 76-62 road victory over Eastern Connecticut State. He finished with 18 points, eight rebounds, four blocks and two steals, leading the Hawks in both rebounds and blocked shots. Rivera accounted for four of SUNY New Paltz's seven blocks in the contest, providing a commanding defensive presence while connecting on 8-of-17 attempts from the field and pulling down three offensive rebounds. His effort helped the Hawks limit the Warriors to 32 second-half points as SUNY New Paltz pulled away for its second consecutive victory. 

Rivera and SUNY New Paltz (2-0) return to action Tuesday, November 10, when the Hawks take on Purchase College. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m. 

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