Wednesday, September 18, 2002

Not only did the Valparaiso University's women's basketball team have success on the court in 2001-2002, the Crusaders also excelled in the classroom, ranking fifth in the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) NCAA Division I Honor Roll that was released.

The Crusaders earned a team grade point average of 3.419 during the academic year and were included in the WBCA top 25 for the fourth consecutive year, earning their highest ranking ever. Valpo placed 25th in 2000-2001, tied for 11th in 1999-2000, and 14th in 1998-1999.

In addition to success in the classroom, Valpo recorded its best season in school history last year, winning the Mid-Continent Conference regular season title, compiling a 26-7 record, and advancing to the quarterfinals of the Women's National Invitation Tournament.

WBCA Academic Top 25 Honor Roll-Division I
1. Wyoming 3.486
2. Toledo 3.465
3. Indiana State 3.462
4. Eastern Washington 3.451
5. VALPARAISO 3.419
6. Long Island 3.413
7. Binghamton 3.412
8. Northern Iowa 3.406
9. Wisconsin-Green Bay 3.402
10. Weber State 3.369
11. Cleveland State 3.331
12. Belmont 3.315
13. Wisconsin-Milwaukee 3.312
14. Robert Morris 3.304
15. Drake 3.294
16. Mount St. Mary's 3.292
17. IUPUI 3.288
18. St. Francis (Pa.) 3.286
19. Niagara 3.281
20. Oklahoma 3.280
21. Sacred Heart 3.275
22. Ball State 3.274
23. Denver 3.263
24. Yale 3.260
25. Miami (Ohio) 3.255