VERMILLION, S.D. -- The Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) announced today that The University of South Dakota women's basketball team had the highest team grade point average for the 2007-08 season in NCAA Division II. The Coyotes 3.649 GPA was the fifth-highest GPA of all institutions in NCAA Division I, Division II, Division III, NAIA and Community/Junior Colleges.

"These players were outstanding on the court, off the court and in the classroom," said Chad Lavin, former head coach who retired at the end of the season. "This really is a special group. This achievement is also a testament of Dave Lorenz and what he has done. His entire athletic academic advising department has done a tremendous job with our team and all USD teams. "

All five players who started in the national championship game for USD had a GPA above 3.0 in the spring semester. The starters in the championship game were Shannon Daly (3.438), Jeana Hoffman (3.833), Jenna Hoffman (3.833), Ashley Robinette (3.474) and Bridget Yoeger (3.800).

This is the first time in school history that USD has posted the nation's highest GPA in Division II. The Coyotes had a 3.741 mark in the fall and a 3.625 in the spring. Both marks were the highest of all 17 sports at South Dakota.

"What an outstanding accomplishment by Chad Lavin and the team," said Ryun Williams, who took over the reins at South Dakota following Lavin's retirement. "This team had the total student-athlete package. Receiving this academic honor as well as playing in the NCAA Division II Championship game caps off an outstanding season on the floor and in the classroom. This honor is a direct reflection of the great academic and administrative support our student-athletes receive here at The U."

With USD earning the top GPA in Division II, it marks the third major award the Coyotes received from the WBCA for the 2007-08 season. Earlier this year, Lavin was named the WBCA Coach of the Year and Jeana Hoffman was named to the WBCA/State Farm Coaches' All-America team.

The University of South Dakota finished 2007-08 with a 33-2 record and made its first appearance in the NCAA Division II national championship game.