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Lauren Betts (women's basketball) and Chase Dodd (men's water polo) have been honored as UCLA's recipients of the prestigious Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor for the 2025-26 academic year. This award recognizes the achievements of one male and one female student-athlete from each member institution for excellence in both athletics and academics. Betts led UCLA to its first NCAA championship, finishing her career as the all-time leader in blocked shots and earning multiple accolades including Big Ten Player of the Year. Dodd contributed significantly to UCLA's second consecutive NCAA title, finishing his career with impressive stats while also excelling academically.

• Lauren Betts averaged 17.1 points and 8.8 rebounds per game, with a career-total of 600+ points, 300+ rebounds, 100+ assists, and 75+ blocks in a single season.
• Chase Dodd finished with 138 career goals and 117 assists, playing in 102 games, and was a three-time ACWPC All-America selection.

While the achievements of both athletes are commendable, some may argue that award recognition could be more inclusive of diverse talents across various sports, not solely highlighting team sports or traditional metrics.

• The Big Ten Medal of Honor has been awarded for over a century, with only 36 recipients annually out of more than 14,000 student-athletes across member institutions.
• Betts and Dodd's awards highlight UCLA's growing reputation for excellence in both athletic and academic realms, joining a prestigious list that includes previous winners.

As both athletes transition to their professional careers, their recognition may serve as a platform for further opportunities in their respective sports, with Betts already being drafted into the WNBA.

The significant achievements of Lauren Betts and Chase Dodd not only underscore their individual talent but also enhance UCLA's legacy in collegiate athletics, reinforcing the importance of blending academic success with sports achievements.