Holland Reporter

The Grand Valley State University (GVSU) women's basketball team has announced the addition of two new players to their 2024 recruiting class. The team secured commitments from transfer Kathryn Schmidt and incoming freshman Emersen Berndt, rounding out a seven-member class.

Kathryn Schmidt, a forward from Hampshire, Illinois, joins GVSU after an impressive four-year tenure at Lewis University. During her time there, she scored over 1,500 points and collected more than 800 rebounds. She consistently averaged double-digit points per game throughout her college career and was honored with All-GLVC recognition each year. Her shooting stats include 43% from the field, 34% from three-point range, and 79% from the free-throw line. Schmidt played a key role in leading Lewis University to 44 victories and two appearances in the Midwest Regional Tournament over the past two seasons.

"Kathryn is a versatile player who can play multiple positions on the floor. She can stretch the defense by playing on the perimeter and she can post up on the block," stated head coach Mike Williams. "After a stellar four-year college career, Kat has the experience and maturity of a player who has competed in all situations. She will be a great addition to our Women's Basketball program."

Emersen Berndt, hailing from Grand Haven High School in Michigan, joins as a guard. In her two varsity years, she helped lead her team to 31 wins while averaging double figures in scoring. As a junior, she was named team MVP and led in scoring with an average of 12 points and six rebounds per game. Her performance earned her All-Area and All-District honors.

"Emerson has been a great leader and a successful player for the last three years at Grand Haven High School," said Williams. "She is a versatile perimeter player with size, strength, and quickness. She can play all 3 positions on the perimeter. She is a knockdown shooter and a solid ball handler."

Coach Williams expressed enthusiasm about welcoming both players to GVSU: "We are overjoyed to have both Kat and Emerson become a part of our Laker Family!"