By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications

SALEM, Ore. -- The Willamette University women's basketball team has earned Special Mention for the Bearcats' academic success as part of the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll program for 2022-23. The WBCA announced an Academic Top 25 teams in each division of the NCAA based on combined grade point. In addition to the Top 25, all women's basketball teams in each division with a 3.0 combined GPA received Special Mention. Teams representing the NAIA and two-year colleges also were honored for their efforts in the classroom.

Willamette registered a 3.365 team GPA for student-athletes on the team, as the Bearcats received Special Mention for the second consecutive year. Willamette was one of two Northwest Conference teams to qualify for the award.

"What a great honor for this team! This program is built on the pursuit of excellence both on and off the court, and this award shows every one of our player's unwavering commitment to be a true student-athlete," Willamette Head Women's Basketball Coach Peg Swadener said. "I couldn't be more proud of this group as they receive this well deserved recognition for the second year in a row!"

The Bearcats earned a 14-12 overall record in 2022-23, while achieving a 9-7 record in the NWC. Willamette qualified for the NWC Tournament and were defeated by eventual champion Whitman College in the semifinals. It was WU's third winning season since 2017-18. The Bearcats were 13-1 this year when holding opponents to fewer than 60 points as Willamette held opponents to just 59.7 points per game. It was WU's third winning season since 2017-18. The Bearcats sank 257 three-point baskets and averaged 34.8 rebounds, 12.6 assists, 7.9 steals, and 3.2 blocked shots per game.