MT. VERNON — Our Orthopaedic Center of Southern Illinois Player of the Week for November 29-December 4 is Mt. Vernon’s NJ Benson.

The senior had a monster week scoring 49 points and grabbing 24 rebounds in the Rams’ win over Carbondale and narrow one-point loss to Belleville East.

At 6-7, Benson is a load inside, but he also has the ability to handle the ball and step outside to knock down three-pointers, in addition to finishing a fast break with authority. That versatility as well as strong summer performances led to a lot of attention from college coaches and several offers.

Benson chose to sign in November to play for another former Southern Illinois prep standout, Dana Ford at Missouri State.
Benson said the family feel as well as the Bears’ style of play were the biggest reasons for his decision.

While excited for the future, Benson says he wants to soak up the present…and have a great senior year with his teammates.