Nov. 19, 2007

George Mason senior forward Will Thomas was the driving force behind Mason's two wins last week as the men's basketball team improved to 3-0 for the first time since 1980. On Monday, he was rewarded for his effort by being named Colonial Athletic Association Player of the Week.

Thomas averaged 18.0 points, 12.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.5 blocks as Mason beat Cleveland State, 56-47, and downed Dayton, 67-56. Against Cleveland State, Thomas was 7 of 9 from the field for 18 points while grabbing eight rebounds with one block and three assists. Against Dayton, Thomas was 5 of 9 from the field with a career-best 8 of 8 effort from the free throw line. He had 18 points and matched his career high with 17 rebounds while handing out two assists and recording two blocks.

Thomas, a Player of the Week once before as a junior, was named All-CAA second team last year. He was selected preseason All-CAA first team this year. He's been named to the CAA All-Defensive Team the past two years. He leads the Patriots in scoring and rebounding this year and he'll be critical to Mason's success its next time out. The Patriots take on No. 22 Kansas State on Thursday in a Thanksgiving matchup in the Old Spice Classic. That game at 9 p.m. from Orlando, Fla., will be aired on ESPN2.