Ellsworth Community College men's basketball standout Jayden Pretty has been named the Iowa Community College Athletic Conference (ICCAC) Athlete of the Week, following a dominant stretch that helped propel the Panthers to a perfect 5-0 start to the season.

According to the ICCAC, "Jayden Pretty put the power in power forward over his last few games because of his intense physicality on both ends of the floor." In Ellsworth's three wins over Sauk Valley, Neosho County, and Labette, Pretty totaled 39 points and 29 rebounds, including a 16-point, 17-rebound double-double. He also went 7-for-8 from the free-throw line and dished out eight assists. Pretty is shooting 54.5% from the field and 86.7% from the line, showing tremendous growth from last season's 60% free-throw mark.

ECC Athletic Director Nate Forsyth praised both Pretty's performance and the team's early success: "Our men's basketball program is off to a strong start, and that's exactly what we expected from this talented group. Coach Bender and his team have worked tirelessly to build a winning culture, and Jayden's leadership and effort on the floor are great examples of that."

Head Coach Bryan Bender echoed that sentiment, highlighting what earned Pretty this week's honor: "Jayden has been a force for us on both ends. His energy, rebounding, and ability to finish through contact have set the tone for how we want to play. He's put in the work, and it's showing. This recognition is well deserved."

Pretty and the Panthers will look to continue their hot start this weekend at the Dale Howard Classic in Iowa Falls.