The Montana State University Billings athletic department held its 14th annual Buzzie Awards, celebrating standout performances from the 2025-26 season. The women's basketball team received the Team of the Year award after a remarkable season, which included winning over 20 games and making history as the first No. 6 seed to clinch the GNAC Championship. Kaden Bertram, a baseball standout, earned both Men's Athlete of the Year and Breakout Athlete of the Year, boasting impressive stats including a .458 batting average. Other notable awards included Orraya Tipasathien as Female Athlete of the Year for her record-breaking golf season and Rae Smart earning Freshman of the Year for her dual-sport success.

By the Numbers
  • The women's basketball team achieved 20+ wins for the fourth consecutive season.
  • Kaden Bertram has a batting average of .458 with 10 home runs and 45 RBIs.
State of Play
  • Bertram鈥檚 remarkable season places him at the top of GNAC statistics for qualified hitters.
  • Tipasathien鈥檚 recent success ties her for the most tournament wins in GNAC history.
What's Next

The athletic department will continue to build on this year鈥檚 successes as teams prepare for upcoming seasons, with a focus on recruiting and enhancing student-athlete support programs. Expect an emphasis on maintaining academic and athletic excellence moving forward.

Bottom Line

The Buzzie Awards effectively highlighted the tremendous achievements of MSUB athletes, fostering a culture of excellence that motivates future performances while celebrating past successes.