CLEVELAND, Ohio – The Ball State women’s basketball team had a standout season, winning their second consecutive Mid-American Conference regular-season title. Four players received notable postseason honors, showcasing their hard work and talent.
Bree Salenbien and Tessa Towers were named to the All-MAC First Team. Sophomore Grace Kingery earned an All-MAC honorable mention, and freshman Aniss Tagayi was recognized on both the MAC All-Freshman Team and the MAC All-Defensive Team.
Salenbien, a graduate transfer from Gonzaga, made a significant impact in her first and only season with the Cardinals. She’s been a crucial player, averaging 15.1 points per game and achieving three MAC Player of the Week awards. Her career-best performance was 32 points in a win against Bowling Green, and she recorded seven double-doubles this season. Despite dealing with injuries in the past, her scoring ability has been essential for the team’s success.
Towers transformed from a reserve into a key player, averaging 15.3 points and 8.3 rebounds per game. She leads the team in both categories, boasting ten double-doubles and a career-high 29 points in a game against Kent State. Her efficiency is impressive—ranking 20th in the nation for field goal percentage at 56.9%.
Kingery has also shone as a deep shooter. Recently, she scored a career-high 24 points, including seven 3-pointers, in a win over Ohio. With an average of 13.2 points per game, she ranks in the top ten nationally for 3-pointers made per game, showing her consistency from long range.
Tagayi, from Montpellier, France, has been a force on both ends of the court. In her freshman debut, she helped the team with strong defense and an impressive double-double, earning spots on both all-freshman and all-defensive teams.
Now, as the No. 2 seed, Ball State, guided by 14th-year head coach Brady Sallee, prepares for the MAC Tournament in Cleveland. They’ll face No. 7 Bowling Green on Wednesday, March 11, at 4 p.m. This tournament is a significant opportunity for the Cardinals to defend their title and highlight their growth over the season.
The excitement surrounding the team reflects a broader trend in women’s sports, where visibility and support continue to rise. The NCAA reports that women’s basketball viewership is growing, with increased attendance and fan engagement each season. This marks a pivotal moment for women in sports—both on and off the court. As these athletes shine, they pave the way for future generations.
