Five Northwestern State women's basketball players have earned Academic All-Southland Conference honors, highlighting their dual success on and off the court. The team, which achieved its highest conference win total in 23 years, is represented by Vernell Atamah, Tiara Abron, Carla Celaya, Clarence Djuela, and Joceline Geara. Notably, Atamah was recognized as the SLC Player of the Year while maintaining a 3.606 GPA, and Geara achieved a perfect 4.0 GPA. This recognition underscores the strong commitment to both academic excellence and athletic performance within the program.

By the Numbers
  • Vernell Atamah averaged 19.2 points and 6.8 rebounds per game, breaking a school record with 93 three-pointers.
  • Tiara Abron maintained a GPA of 3.687 and scored in double figures in 16 games.
  • Clarence Djuela had a GPA of 3.773 and led the team with a field goal percentage of .515.
  • Joceline Geara posted a 4.0 GPA while shooting 34.6% from beyond the arc.
Yes, But

The recognition of five players comes amid a competitive landscape where student-athletes balance rigorous academic demands alongside the pressures of collegiate sports. While the achievements are commendable, maintaining this level of excellence consistently poses constant challenges.

State of Play
  • Northwestern State women's basketball is experiencing a revival, evidenced by a record number of conference wins.
  • The program has successfully merged academic success with athletic performance, setting a standard for future teams.
What's Next

Moving forward, the program aims to continue advancing in both academic and athletic realms, potentially attracting talented recruits who value both aspects. Their success may foster a stronger culture of excellence, influencing future team dynamics.

Bottom Line

The achievements of these student-athletes reflect a promising future for Northwestern State, underscoring the importance of balancing academic success with athletic performance. This dual accomplishment can serve as a template for other programs aiming for comprehensive excellence.