Orange County's Romeo Aquino named 2023 DII Men's Basketball Player of the Year
Charlotte, NC – Orange County forward Romeo Aquino has been named the 2023 NJCAA Division II Men's Basketball Player of the Year. Aquino receives the top individual honor after helping the Colts reach the Division II Men's Basketball semifinals. The sophomore ranked among the best in the nation statistically in points per game (4th at 23.8), defensive rebounds (5th at 240), and total rebounds (6th at 336).
"Romeo is an outstanding player on both ends of the floor. He was a major reason for our team's success this season and exemplifies what a student athlete is on and off the court. He was our statistical leader but also our emotional leader. Plain and simple, Romeo is a winner", said Orange County Coach Thomas Rickard, "He led the team to a school record 31 wins this season and a 50-5 record over the last two seasons as well as a final four appearance. He makes his teammates better and is truly happy for his teammates when they succeed. I cannot wait to see what the future holds. We are so proud of him and I'm sure his parents are as well because they raised a special young man.
In his sophomore campaign, Aquino led the Colts to a 31-3 record and a fourth-place finish in the National Tournament and was named a First Team All-American.
Personal
Position: Forward
Height: 6'4"
Class: Sophomore
Hometown: Newburgh, NY
2022-23 Statistics
23.8 points per game
57.7 field goal percentage
24.6 3pt percentage
76.4 free throw percentage
10.2 rebounds per game
3.3 assists per game
2022-23 Accomplishments
2022-23 NJCAA DII First Team All-American
2022-23 NJCAA Region 15 Player of the Year
2022-23 NJCAA Region 15 All-Region First Team
2022-23 NJCAA Week 8 DII Men's Basketball Player of the Week