The National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) has revealed its 2025‑26 Team Academic Excellence Award and Honor Court recipients, spotlighting programs that blend athletic competitiveness with scholarly achievement.
Among the honorees, the University of Northern Iowa’s men’s basketball squad stands out, with its entire team featured in the recognition — a testament to the program’s sustained academic rigor.
A Tradition of Academic Excellence
The Panthers have now posted a collective grade point average of 3.43 for the previous season, marking the thirteenth straight year they have maintained a team GPA of at least 3.00, a benchmark that underscores a culture of discipline both on the hardwood and in the classroom.
The NABC’s Team Academic Excellence Award is reserved for programs that achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher, while the Honor Court designation highlights individuals who carry a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or above, reflecting a broader commitment to academic integrity across the sport.
Six UNI players — Ben Schwieger, Chase Courbat, Hunter Jacobson, Ismaël Diouf, Kyle Pock and Tristan Smith — were named to the Honor Court, underscoring the depth of talent that also excels academically.
University officials praised the student‑athletes for their dedication, noting that the recognition reflects the supportive environment fostered by coaches, faculty and staff.
The awards were announced in Kansas City, Missouri, where the NABC traditionally congregates to celebrate the achievements of college basketball programs that prioritize education alongside competition.