Sr., C, 6-3, Plattsburgh, NY/Beakmantown
STATS (Week 1): 3 starts, 2 double-doubles, 13.3 ppg, 11.3 rpg, .447 FG pct.
Bjelko was Bryant’s top returning scorer heading into the season and the 6-foot-3 center is living up to that billing three games into her senior campaign. Bjelko led the Bulldogs in scoring average (13.3 ppg) last week, which was highlighted by a 21-point performance during the team’s first victory. Following a double-double in the season opener against A-10 member Massachusetts, Bjelko poured in a game-high 21 points to go along with 16 caroms in a 75-72 triumph over America East foe New Hampshire. The 6-foot-3 post player shot 60.0 percent from the field against New Hampshire, including a 4-for-6 clip during the fourth quarter. Bjelko was also credited with one steal and one block while recording her second consecutive double-double. The Empire State product ended the season-opening stretch by tallying eight points and five boards during Sunday's setback at Big East member Providence. Through three games, she is averaging a double-double (13.3 ppg, 11.3 rpg) while shooting 44.7 percent from the field.