INA, Ill. (February 2, 2026) — The RLC Athletics Department is proud to recognize Freshman Will Paulson (Marthasville, MO) as the February Student Athlete of the Month. The honor highlights Paulson's exceptional performance in basketball and his commitment to his academics.

"Will has been the definition of a Rend Lake College MBB player since the minute he stepped on campus in August," said Head Coach Tim Wills. "He is intentional in the weightroom, never takes plays off, handles his classwork, interacts great with all of our faculty, and is a joy to be around."

Paulson is currently averaging 9.9 PPG (53% FG), and 4.5 RPG while starting 20 games so far as a freshman. In January, he was the Warriors 2nd leading scorer at 12.8 PPG (53% FG and 37% from 3FG), and 3rd on the team in rebounding with 4.5 RPG. His month is highlighted by a 27 Point, 14 rebound performance vs Lincoln Land CC, and a 16 Point, 7 rebound performance vs NJCAA D1 SWIC. Paulson has helped lead the team to an 8-game win streak in January and a share of 1st place in the MWAC standings. Also, Paulson was one of 9 MBB players who achieved a GPA of 3.0+ in the Fall semester and is well on his way to achieving that again this Spring.

"We are so glad that we have gotten to coach Will this season, and we are looking forward to the rest of his career at RLC. These guys give us everything they have during the course of the year and Will earns and deserves everything coming his way. We are proud of who he is as a person day-in and day-out," said Wills.

The Student Athlete of the Month is given each month to recognize our athletes on and off the field. The student's picture will be on display at the entrance of the RLC REC for all of those who come to workout or practice.