CHARLOTTE, NC - The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association has named Fayetteville State basketball players, KaNyah O'Neal and Larry Holmes, as the Women's Defensive Player of the Week and Men's Player of the Week, respectively.

KaNyah O'Neal, a redshirt-sophomore business major from Washington, NC, was a defensive catalyst for Fayetteville State during its undefeated run at the CIAA/PSAC Challenge. She averaged 4.5 steals per game, totaling nine steals over two games, and added a block while applying relentless pressure on opposing guards. Her defensive presence helped the Broncos force 19 turnovers against Millersville and sparked transition opportunities that fueled their comeback victory. O'Neal also contributed on the boards with 14 rebounds, splitting her efforts evenly between offensive and defensive glass.

Game Totals:

• at Shippensburg (11/14/25) – W 52-37: 5 points, 8 rebounds, 4 steals 
• at Millersville (11/15/25) – W 64-62: 6 points, 6 rebounds, 5 steals, 3 made free throws 

Larry Howell, a senior business marketing major form Orangeburg, SC,  powered Fayetteville State's offense during the opening weekend, averaging 26.5 points per game across two contests. Howell was nearly automatic at the free-throw line, converting 21-of-24 attempts (87.5%). He also contributed 10 rebounds, six assists, and five steals over the two games. Howell's scoring was highlighted by his ability to finish inside and draw contact, setting the tone for the Broncos offensively.

Game Totals:

• vs West Chester (11/14/25) – W 83-80: 27 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 8-for-9 at the line 
• at Gannon (11/15/25) – L 102-92: 26 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 13-for-15 at the line 

The women's team will host UNC Pembroke at Capel Arena on Wednesday, November 19 at 6:00 PM, while the men's team will hit the road to face UNC Pembroke at the same time.