The National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Honors Court has released its latest list of student‑athletes who have distinguished themselves both on the hardwood and in the classroom. This year, four members of the Navy Midshipmen men’s basketball team received the honor, underscoring the program’s long‑standing commitment to academic excellence.
A Tradition of Recognition
The recognition is not new to the Navy program; over the past two decades the team has amassed 29 honors, with multiple awardees in a single season on three occasions in the last five years. The award celebrates juniors, seniors and graduate students who maintain a minimum 3.20 GPA and remain in good standing as varsity participants.
Among this year’s recipients, Austin Benigni and Sam Krist join an exclusive club of players who have earned the distinction for two consecutive years. Benigni, who graduated with a 3.45 GPA in computer science, and Krist, a 3.49 GPA graduate in ocean engineering, exemplify the blend of technical rigor and athletic dedication the Navy values. They are joined by first‑time honorees Cam Cole, the team’s upcoming captain, who finished with a 3.57 GPA in cyber operations, and Aidan Kehoe, who earned a 3.23 GPA in political science.
Looking Ahead
As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Cole’s leadership as captain will be complemented by the scholarly example set by his peers. The Midshipmen’s ability to contend competitively while maintaining high academic standards continues to reinforce the institution’s mission of developing well‑rounded officers.