ELMHURST, Ill. – After perhaps her best demonstration of volleyball savvy this past weekend, first-year libero Jessica Helms has been named the Summit League Defensive Player of the Week (Sep. 5-11), as announced by the League office Monday (Sep. 12).  Helms collected 71 digs in four matches over the weekend, averaging 4.73 digs per set. 
 
"Jessica really picked up her game this past weekend and fully demonstrated the potential we know she has," Head Coach Steve Payne said.  "She was instrumental for us in the back row and we are very happy with her continued growth as a player.  She was key for us in picking up a pair of wins."
 
The honor marks the first time in Helms' career to be named a Player of the Week.  The recognition also marks the first such honor for IUPUI in the 2016 season.  Helms pulls in the recognition following a weekend in which she was named to the Dr. Mary Jo Wynn Invitational All-Tournament team, which included some standout performances in the back row. 
 
Against McNeese State, Helms came through with 24 digs, leading the defensive effort and helping the Jags claim a straight-set sweep of the Cowgirls.  Perhaps the highlight of the weekend for the Jags, IUPUI handed Green Bay their first loss of the season, beating the Phoenix in a 3-2 marathon match.  Helms picked up 22 digs in the outing.
 
Helms earned the role of libero this offseason, following the departure of seasoned veteran Courtney Halter.  In total, Helms has compiled a team-high and Summit League fifth-best 147 digs this season, averaging 3.77 per set.  She's added seven service aces, ranking third on the team.