Ottawa University’s women’s basketball program has once again been celebrated for its scholarly achievements, earning a spot on the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll for the 2025‑26 season.
The Braves posted a collective grade‑point average of 3.695, placing them tenth among all NAIA programs and marking the highest cumulative GPA in school history.
A Milestone in Academic Excellence
This honor marks the third consecutive year that Ottawa has been recognized by the WBCA, underscoring a sustained commitment to academic performance that mirrors the team’s growth on the court.
To qualify, a program must maintain a team GPA of at least 3.0 and receive a nomination from a coach who is a member of the WBCA, standards that Ottawa has consistently met.
Coach’s Perspective on Academic Commitment
Hunter Bondurant, the team’s head coach, said he is proud of the student‑athletes who “excel both on the hardwood and in the classroom,” emphasizing that the culture of achievement extends beyond statistics.
The honor roll also highlights the broader landscape of collegiate women’s basketball, where 119 teams across all divisions earned similar acknowledgment during the 2025‑26 academic year.
While Bethel (Tenn.) topped the NAIA rankings with a 3.829 GPA, followed by Hastings, Tabor, Southeastern and Grace, Ottawa’s rise reflects an upward trajectory in the WBCA rankings over the past three seasons.
The achievement coincides with the 31st edition of the WBCA’s academic recognition, a milestone that celebrates the association’s long‑standing dedication to fostering scholarly success among women’s basketball programs.