Kaemyn Bekemeier, a standout guard for Missouri State’s women’s basketball team, has been honored with the 2026 Missouri State Outstanding Female Athlete Award, a distinction that celebrates the university’s top female athletic performer.
A Season of Records
During the 2025‑26 campaign she helped the Bears capture their 18th CUSA Tournament title and secure an 18th appearance in the NCAA Tournament, underscoring the program’s sustained excellence.
Her statistical impact was equally striking: she ranked second nationally among players 5‑foot‑9 or shorter in rebounds, amassed 295 boards and 627 points, and became the 32nd player in school history to reach the 1,000‑point milestone.
Bekemeier’s consistency shone through 32 double‑figure scoring games, including 15 outings with at least 20 points, while her average of 17.4 points and 8.2 rebounds per game topped the team.
The award places her among an elite group of Lady Bears, joining recent honorees such as Danielle Gitzen, Alexa Willard, Brice Calip and Lacy Stokes, and marks the fifth time in nine years a Bear has received the accolade.
Beyond the numbers, her performance resonated with teammates and coaches alike, reinforcing a culture of competitiveness that continues to attract top talent to the program.
National Recognition
Her resurgence coincides with a broader resurgence of interest in women’s basketball, as evidenced by the growing media coverage and fan engagement surrounding her achievements.