Grace Lancaster and Sidiki Diakite named UPEI Panther Athletes of the Week

Every week, UPEI Athletics and Recreation recognizes student-athletes for their achievements and contributions to their respective sports. The UPEI Panther Athletes of the Week for November 18–24, 2024, are Grace Lancaster (women’s basketball) and Sidiki Diakite (men’s track and field).

Lancaster, a fourth-year guard and science student from Fall River, Nova Scotia, was a big reason why the Panthers came away with road wins against the Cape Breton University Capers on November 22 and the St. Francis Xavier X-Women on November 23. Lancaster averaged a team-high 14.0 points, while making 6-of-12 three-pointers. She also averaged 6.0 rebounds in the two wins.

“Grace had a strong effort over the weekend,” said head coach Matt Gamblin. “She has improved her shooting consistency this year, and her defensive effort is always outstanding. She's been a great 3-and-D player for us this season.”

Diakite, a second-year business student from Nigeria, delivered an impressive performance on the track at the Red and Black Invitational in Saint John, New Brunswick, on November 23. He set two new personal bests, clocking in at 7.23 seconds in the 60-metre sprint and following it up with a stellar 36.45 seconds in the 300-metre sprint.

“Sidiki had a very strong start to the season and has shown the rest of the conference that he will be a medal threat,” said head coach Damon MacDonald.

Go Panthers Go!