BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- Bridgewater State University freshman center Jannise Avelino has been selected as the New England Women's Basketball Association (NEWBA) Newcomer of the Week.

A native of Peabody, Massachusetts, Avelino averaged 17.5 points, 7.5 rebounds (2.5 offensive) and 2.5 steals in two games for the Bears last week while shooting 65% (13-20) from the floor and 69% (9-13) at the free throw line.

Avelino poured in a career-high 23 points to go along with seven rebounds (three offensive) and four steals in a 97-53 Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) win at Fitchburg State, and also notched 12 points, eight rebounds (two offensive), a steal and a blocked shot in an 84-74 conference victory over Worcester State. 

In 18 games this season, Avelino is averaging 9.5 points, 6.6 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game while shooting 54.3% (69-127) from the floor and 62.3% (33-53) at the free throw line. She currently ranks third in the MASCAC in field goal percentage, fourth in blocks and 11th in rebounding.

Earlier today, Avelino was named the MASCAC Women's Basketball Rookie of the Week for the second straight week and third time this season.

The BSU women’s basketball team wrapped up regular season competition with an overall record of 18-7 including a 10-2 mark in MASCAC play. The Bears are seeded second in this week's MASCAC Tournament and will entertain #7 MCLA in quarterfinal round action on Tuesday evening at six o'clock.