Holland Reporter

The Women's Basketball Coaches' Association (WBCA) has announced its postseason awards. Rylie Bisballe and Mike Williams of the Lakers received top honors.

Rylie Bisballe was recognized as a Division II All-American by the WBCA. The senior athlete had previously been named the D2CCA Midwest Player of the Year and both the GLIAC Player and Defensive Player of the Year. Bisballe led her team with an average of 13.7 points and 5.6 rebounds per game, shooting 51.3% from the field. Her season statistics also include 79 assists, 65 steals, and 27 blocks, along with a free throw percentage of 73.5%. This season, she surpassed a career milestone by scoring over 1,500 points and is now among the top five in program history for points (1,631), made field goals (628), and rebounds (888). Last year, she earned Honorable Mention All-American honors from the WBCA.

Mike Williams was awarded National Coach of the Year by the WBCA after leading his team to victory in the Midwest Regional Championship for the third time during his tenure. Under his guidance, GVSU reached the Elite Eight with a record of 35-2, marking their fourth consecutive season with at least 30 wins—a unique achievement in Division II basketball. The Lakers claimed both regular-season and tournament titles in the GLIAC, earning Williams additional recognition as GLIAC Coach of the Year. His coaching efforts resulted in five players being named All-GLIAC performers, one player receiving All-Region honors, and another being recognized as an All-American.

The Lakers are set to compete in the Elite Eight against Gannon on Monday evening at 6:00 PM in Pittsburgh.