The Harding University men's basketball team has been recognized for its outstanding performance both on the hardwood and in the classroom, earning the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Team Academic Excellence Award for the 2025‑26 academic year. The honor highlights the program's commitment to scholarly achievement alongside competitive success.
Eight Bison players were selected to the NABC Honors Court, a distinction reserved for junior, senior or graduate student‑athletes who maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher. The honorees represent a range of academic disciplines, including Management, Kinesiology, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering and Finance, underscoring the team's diverse scholarly strengths.
Academic Excellence Meets Athletic Prowess
Head coach Weston Jameson praised the student‑athletes for balancing rigorous academics with a demanding schedule, noting that “excellence in the classroom fuels confidence on the court.” NABC Executive Director Craig Robinson emphasized the broader significance of the award, stating that academic success is a cornerstone of the sport’s future.
On the competitive side, the Bison posted a 24‑8 record and captured their second consecutive Great American Conference Tournament Championship, a feat that secured an automatic berth in the NCAA Division II Tournament. The team’s eighth appearance in the national tournament reflects a sustained tradition of excellence that blends winning culture with intellectual rigor.
The dual recognition serves as a model for other programs, illustrating how athletic ambition and academic responsibility can coexist. As the Bison look ahead, the combination of high‑level coaching, dedicated scholarship and community engagement promises continued success both in games and in the classroom.