Three members of the Wheeling University men's basketball program have been named to the 2025‑2026 National Association of Basketball Coaches Honors Court, a distinction that highlights both athletic achievement and academic excellence.
The Honors Court recognizes juniors, seniors and graduate students who maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2, ensuring that recipients are competitive athletes who also excel in the classroom.
Spotlight on the Cardinals' Standouts
Alex Smith, a redshirt junior, anchored the defense with a team‑high 126 steals while contributing 6.2 points and 6.0 rebounds per game over 28 appearances. His all‑court impact helped the Cardinals secure crucial wins.
Elijah Edwards, a senior, earned his second consecutive Honors Court nod. Though his minutes were limited, he provided a spark off the bench, finishing the season with 14 points in just 15 minutes of play.
Kris English, a junior, was a key offensive weapon before a season‑ending injury. He averaged 9.0 points and 3.2 rebounds per game, serving as a vital bench contributor.
The Cardinals' academic prowess was further underscored when they captured the Mountain East Conference Team Academic Excellence Award, the only program in the league to do so. This marks the fourth straight year that Wheeling University has placed at least one player on the NABC Honors Court.
Looking Ahead
Coaches and teammates alike praised the trio for embodying the program's commitment to competitive success and scholarly rigor. As the team prepares for the upcoming campaign, the blend of veteran leadership and fresh talent promises to keep Wheeling among the conference's top contenders.