Philadelphia, PA, December 22, 2025
Drexel University Athletics has recognized Amaris Baker and Victor Panov as the Dragons of the Week for their exceptional performances in basketball. Baker led her team with remarkable scoring feats, including a historic 33-point game, while Panov contributed significantly with a career-high of 19 points. This recognition highlights the dedication and talent of Drexel’s student-athletes and their role in promoting a competitive athletic culture in Philadelphia. The partnership with Rothman Orthopaedics further supports athletes’ performance and health, fostering excellence in collegiate sports.
Philadelphia, PA — The spirit of individual excellence and robust competition continues to thrive within Philadelphia’s collegiate athletic landscape, exemplified by Drexel University Athletics’ recent announcement. Amaris Baker of the women’s basketball team and Victor Panov from the men’s basketball squad have been jointly recognized as the Drexel Dragons of the Week for December 16th–22nd, an honor presented by Rothman Orthopaedics. This recognition underscores their outstanding performances and highlights the commitment to fostering top-tier talent within the city’s academic institutions.
These weekly accolades reflect a broader narrative of perseverance and dedication prevalent in university sports, aligning with the values of hard work and initiative crucial for success in any field. The consistent achievements of student-athletes like Baker and Panov not only elevate Drexel’s profile but also contribute to the vibrant and competitive athletic culture that characterizes Philadelphia, PA sports.
Recognizing Excellence and Initiative
Individual Achievement and Team Spirit
Amaris Baker, a graduate student and a key player for the Drexel women’s basketball team, delivered two remarkable performances during the week, helping her team to a 1-1 record. Her standout efforts included a game-high 26 points in Drexel’s historic 95-38 victory over Chestnut Hill, which marked the largest margin of victory in program history. She followed this with a 33-point display against Vermont, her highest scoring output at the Daskalakis Athletic Center and her third career game with 30 or more points. Baker’s impressive scoring and leadership have also propelled her into the top 19 of the program’s all-time scoring leaders.
On the men’s side, Victor Panov showcased his scoring prowess for the Drexel men’s basketball team, setting a career high with 19 points in the Dragons’ decisive 74-56 victory over the Maine Black Bears on Sunday. Panov’s efficiency was notable, as he shot 60% from the field, including an impressive five-for-nine from beyond the three-point line. His strong performance contributed significantly to the Dragons’ successful homestand, where they also secured a 75-67 win over Mount St. Mary’s. These individual accomplishments not only highlight their talent but also demonstrate how individual initiative and consistent effort contribute directly to team success within a competitive environment.
Implications for Philadelphia Athletics
Fostering a Culture of Competition
The consistent recognition of outstanding student-athletes like Baker and Panov plays a vital role in invigorating the Philadelphia college sports scene. Such weekly honors celebrate peak performance and instill a culture of healthy competition and ambition among young athletes across the region. Drexel University Athletics, through programs like “Dragon of the Week,” actively contributes to the narrative of Philadelphia as a hub for collegiate athletic talent and competitive spirit. This focus on rewarding individual merit through a transparent selection process encourages student-athletes to strive for their best, understanding that their hard work is acknowledged. These efforts solidify the city’s reputation for fostering sporting excellence, benefiting the broader community and inspiring future generations of athletes.
University Programs and Community Support
Private Partnerships and Athletic Development
The “Dragon of the Week” award is notably presented by Rothman Orthopaedics, highlighting the critical role of private investment and partnerships in supporting university athletic programs. Rothman Orthopaedics is the Official Orthopedic Partner of Drexel Athletics, a multi-year partnership that was recently renewed in September 2025. This collaboration ensures that Drexel’s student-athletes receive world-class orthopedic care, including an on-site clinic, directly contributing to their health, performance, and ability to compete at high levels. Such private-sector engagement exemplifies a model of community self-reliance and entrepreneurial support, where local businesses contribute to the vitality of educational and athletic institutions. These partnerships extend beyond financial contributions, integrating specialized expertise that is invaluable to the long-term well-being and development of student-athletes. This emphasis on health and performance allows athletes to focus on their studies and their sport, embodying the holistic development championed by collegiate programs.
The Path to Success: Hard Work and Dedication
Embodying the Dragon Spirit
The achievements of Amaris Baker and Victor Panov underscore the foundational values of hard work, personal initiative, and unwavering dedication that are essential for success in competitive athletics. Baker’s career-high scoring outputs and Panov’s instrumental role in recent victories are not merely isolated events but the culmination of consistent effort and a commitment to improvement. These qualities resonate deeply within the sports community and reflect the broader entrepreneurial spirit often seen in Philadelphia, where individual drive often leads to significant collective gains. Recognizing these athletes publicly reinforces the idea that sustained effort and resilience are key determinants of achievement, both on the court and in life. Their performances serve as tangible examples for their peers, demonstrating how focused discipline translates into tangible results, thereby strengthening the competitive ethos of Drexel Athletics.
Looking Ahead for Drexel Basketball
Building on Momentum
The recent successes of both the men’s and women’s basketball teams, highlighted by these “Dragon of the Week” honors, set a positive trajectory for Drexel’s athletic programs. The men’s team, with their win over Maine, improved their record to 6-7, showcasing their potential as they head into future matchups. The 2025-2026 season for men’s basketball, while containing some unknowns typical of the current transfer portal era, presents opportunities for growth and improvement, particularly as the team prepares for crucial tournaments like the Big 5 Classic. Similarly, the women’s team concluded their non-conference schedule with a 7-4 record, demonstrating strength and readiness for conference play. The team’s historic win against Chestnut Hill, where they set a program record for the widest victory margin, further illustrates their competitive prowess. These individual and team accomplishments create momentum, demonstrating the Dragons’ commitment to continuous improvement and competitive excellence in the challenging landscape of college basketball.
The exemplary performances of Amaris Baker and Victor Panov, recognized as Drexel’s Dragons of the Week, stand as a testament to the power of individual initiative and dedicated effort within collegiate athletics. Their achievements not only elevate Drexel University Athletics but also contribute significantly to the vibrant and competitive sports culture of Philadelphia, PA. The essential support from partnerships like that with Rothman Orthopaedics further underscores the value of private investment in nurturing local talent and ensuring the well-being of student-athletes. We encourage all residents to continue supporting Drexel basketball and other Philadelphia college sports, fostering a community that values hard work, competition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Your engagement helps champion the next generation of leaders and athletes.
FAQ Section
Who were named the Drexel Dragons of the Week for December 16th–22nd?
Amaris Baker and Victor Panov were named the Drexel Dragons of the Week for December 16th–22nd.
Which teams do Amaris Baker and Victor Panov represent?
Amaris Baker is a member of the women’s basketball team, and Victor Panov is a member of the men’s basketball team.
Who presents the Dragon of the Week award?
The Dragon of the Week award is presented by Rothman Orthopaedics.
What were some of Amaris Baker’s key performances?
Amaris Baker scored a game-high 26 points in Drexel’s 95-38 victory over Chestnut Hill and delivered a 33-point effort against Vermont. Her 33 points against Vermont were her highest scoring output inside the Daskalakis Athletic Center and her third career game with 30 or more points.
What was Victor Panov’s key performance?
Victor Panov scored a career-high 19 points in Drexel’s 74-56 win over the Maine Black Bears.
What is the relationship between Rothman Orthopaedics and Drexel Athletics?
Rothman Orthopaedics is the Official Orthopedic Partner of Drexel Athletics, providing world-class orthopedic care and overseeing an on-site clinic for student-athletes.
Feature Table
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dragon of the Week (Dec 16-22, 2025) | Amaris Baker (Women’s Basketball), Victor Panov (Men’s Basketball) |
| Award Presenter | Rothman Orthopaedics |
| Amaris Baker: Performance Highlight | 26 points vs. Chestnut Hill (95-38 win, program-record margin of victory); 33 points vs. Vermont (career-high at Daskalakis Athletic Center) |
| Victor Panov: Performance Highlight | 19 points vs. Maine (74-56 win, career high) |
| Drexel Men’s Basketball Record (after Maine game) | 6-7 |
| Drexel Women’s Basketball Non-Conference Record (after Vermont game) | 7-4 |
| Rothman Orthopaedics Partnership Status | Multi-year renewal (announced Sept 2025), Official Orthopedic Partner |
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