Mike Ward was a cornerstone for the success of the 1993 men's basketball team, leading the Bearcats to the NAIA District II national championship. Crowning his basketball career at Willamette, Mike earned NAIA Division II first team all-America honors in 1993 and was named MVP of the national tournament. He led the Bearcats in scoring and rebounding his senior season, while playing in every game during his four years and starting every game his last three seasons. Mike also earned first team all-Northwest Conference and NAIA District II honors his last two years, and was league and District MVP in 1993. Upon graduation in 1993 with a degree in economics, Mike ranked No. 3 in career shooting, No. 6 in career rebounding and No. 8 in career field goal shooting. His career was notable particularly for his improvement each year, and his selfless, total commitment to the teams he played on.