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March 23, 2009

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Senior Emily Brister was selected to the 2009 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II State Farm Coaches’ All-America Basketball Team, announced by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association and State Farm.

The 10-member team was selected by an online vote of the selection committee. The committee is comprised of one representative from each of the eight geographical regions and a chairperson.

This is the first time for Brister to be selected to the WBCA State Farm first team. She has previously received honorable mention recognition.

“It is never an easy task to select just 10 players from hundreds as the best in Division II, but this group of 10 student-athletes made the job much easier,” said WBCA CEO Beth Bass. “Each one of these student-athletes has distinguished themselves above the rest, and we would like to honor them for their hard work.”

“State Farm is truly honored to recognize these outstanding student-athletes for their wonderful achievements, their dedication to the game of basketball and their commitment to their communities, said Pam El, Marketing Vice President for State Farm. “The State Farm Coaches All-America Team represents true excellence in the sport of women’s basketball, and we are extremely proud to be associated with these remarkable student-athletes.”

Joining Brister on the All-America first team were seniors Katie Cezat (Hillsdale College), Ida Edwards (Emporia State), Amanda Grappe (Arkansas Tech Univ.), Tracey Jahzinga (Indiana Univ. of Pa.), Rebecca Kielpinski (Alaska-Anchorage), and Jessie Slack (Northern Kentucky). Three juniors made the list, including Johanna Leedham (Franklin Pierce), Phebe Smith (Columbus State), and Brooque Williams (California Univ. of Pa.).

“What a deserving honor,” said head coach Krista Gerlich. “It is just very fitting for her to receive this honor after having to make the sacrifices she’s had to endure.“

In addition to being a WBCA/State Farm All-American, Brister was also named to the 2009 Daktronics All-America First Team for the third time in her collegiate career.

The Lady Buffs face Delta State in the first round of the NCAA Elite Eight on Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at St. Mary’s Greehey Arena in San Antonio, Texas. Tipoff is set for 8:30 p.m.