Natalia Salas and Ben Patterson from the University of Texas Permian Basin have been awarded the 2025-26 Lone Star Conference Scholar-Athlete Award. This prestigious honor is granted annually to one male and one female student-athlete from each LSC institution, recognizing outstanding academic and athletic achievements. Both Salas and Patterson have demonstrated significant commitment to their sports鈥攚omen's soccer and football, respectively鈥攚hile maintaining impressive academic records. Salas graduated with a 3.97 GPA in management, while Patterson achieved a 3.30 GPA in petroleum engineering, underscoring the balance they maintained between athletics and academics. Their accomplishments reflect not only individual dedication but also the values upheld by UTPB's athletic program.

By the Numbers
  • Natalia Salas: 3.97 GPA, two assists in women's soccer, played 1,400+ minutes this season.
  • Ben Patterson: 3.30 GPA, ranked 11th nationwide in NCAA Division II for yards per reception (21.19), 32 catches for 678 yards this season.
State of Play
  • Salas captained the women's soccer team, leading her squad through a successful season.
  • Patterson secured Second-Team All-LSC honors as a wide receiver, contributing significantly to the football team.
What's Next

Both athletes are poised to embark on their professional careers, with Salas and Patterson likely to continue their pursuits in their respective fields and potentially remain involved in athletics. Their experiences at UTPB may serve as a springboard for future opportunities in sports or business. As they transition, they may also inspire future student-athletes at UTPB to excel in both academics and athletics.

Bottom Line

Salas and Patterson's achievements exemplify the ideal blend of academic excellence and athletic prowess that the Lone Star Conference seeks to promote. Their recognition as Scholar-Athletes underscores the importance of discipline and commitment in both realms, setting a standard for future generations of athletes at UTPB and beyond.