KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Eastern Oregon's Kiauna Mack has been named the NAIA Women's Volleyball Defender of the Week for her outstanding performances from October 14-20, as announced by the NAIA on Tuesday. This marks the first time Mack has earned this national recognition, making her the second Mountaineer to receive the award this season, following teammate Hailey Arritola.

Mack, a junior middle blocker from Puyallup, Wash., recorded a total of 18 assisted blocks over two matches. She averaged 2.25 blocks per set, solidifying her spot as a key player for the No. 4-ranked Mountaineers. Mack's best performance of the week came against No. 9 Corban, where she recorded 10 blocks and 9 kills, leading Eastern Oregon to a 3-0 sweep. She continued her impressive weekend with eight blocks in a hard-fought 3-2 reverse sweep over (RV) Bushnell.

"Kiauna has consistently demonstrated her relentless work ethic and dedication to excellence, earning her the well-deserved recognition of National Defender of the Week," said EOU Head Coach Kaki McLean Morehead. "Her blocking has been pivotal to our success this year."

Mack currently averages the second-most blocks per set in the NAIA, at 1.71 blocks per set. She leads the Cascade Collegiate Conference with 120 total blocks on the season.

Mack's exceptional play has significantly contributed to Eastern Oregon's strong position in the conference and the national rankings. The Mountaineers are currently ranked No. 4 in the nation with a 21-2 overall record, holding second place in the conference with a 13-2 record.