Hood’s College Men’s Basketball earns NABC Team Academic Excellence Award; Six named to Honors Court

by Brian Hradsky · Published July 16, 2026 · Updated July 16, 2026

Hood College Men’s Basketball Earns NABC Team Academic Excellence Award; Six Named to Honors Court

Kansas City, Mo. – The Hood College men’s basketball team was among the distinguished collegiate programs recognized by the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) for their outstanding academic achievements during the 2025-26 season. Hood College was honored with the NABC Team Academic Excellence Award, and six of its student-athletes secured spots on the prestigious NABC Honors Court, highlighting the team’s commitment to academic success alongside athletic competition.

Hood College Men’s Basketball Recognized for Academic Excellence

Each year, the NABC acknowledges men’s college basketball programs across all NCAA divisions for exceptional performance in the classroom. The 2025-26 awards celebrate teams with a cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher, a mark of dedication that the Hood College men’s basketball program proudly achieved. This recognition places Hood College among an elite group of teams nationally that have demonstrated an outstanding balance of athletics and academics.

The NABC Team Academic Excellence Award reflects the efforts of both players and coaching staff in fostering an environment where academic achievement is prioritized alongside competitive success. For Hood College, a private liberal arts institution in Frederick, Maryland, playing in NCAA Division III and the Centennial Conference, achievements like this underscore the program’s holistic approach to student-athlete development.

Six Hood College Players Named to NABC Honors Court

Alongside the team award, six Hood College men’s basketball players were named to the 2025-26 NABC Honors Court. This honor is reserved for individual student-athletes who not only maintain a GPA of 3.2 or above but also exhibit dedication and discipline across all areas of college life. The announcement highlights Hood College’s depth of academic talent spread throughout its roster.

These players have demonstrated exceptional commitment to their studies while competing at a high level on the court. For Hood College head coach Brad Brewer and assistant coaches, such honors validate their mission of developing well-rounded athletes prepared for success beyond basketball.

Context: Hood College and NCAA Division III Basketball

Hood College competes in NCAA Division III, an athletic level emphasizing the balance between academic achievement and athletics without athletic scholarships. The program has steadily built a reputation as a competitive force in the Centennial Conference while placing a strong emphasis on academic integrity.

Hood College’s recent accomplishments in the classroom continue to place Maryland’s Division III athletics in the spotlight. For student-athletes balancing rigorous coursework with practice, travel, and games, such recognition is especially commendable.

Looking Forward: Implications for Hood College Basketball Program

Success in academics helps in recruiting well-rounded student-athletes who value excellence both on and off the court. The 2025-26 NABC accolades give Hood College’s men’s basketball program a significant boost in visibility, enhancing its appeal within the region and nationally. As the Blazers prepare for the upcoming seasons, their academic excellence serves as a foundation for sustained competitive success.

Head Coach Brad Brewer, now in his 15th season, has coached Hood to multiple winning seasons and NCAA DIII tournament appearances. Integrating academic recognition with athletic prowess continues to be a hallmark of his leadership style.

Maryland Sports Blog Take

Hood College’s men’s basketball team receiving the NABC Team Academic Excellence Award and having six players on the Honors Court is a proud moment for the Frederick community and Maryland college basketball. It illustrates the Blazers’ commitment to cultivating student-athletes who excel across all dimensions of college life.

In a state rich with basketball talent, from Division I programs like the University of Maryland to Division III schools like Hood College, such academic honors enhance Maryland’s reputation as a leader in developing both elite athletes and scholars. The Blazers’ success sends a powerful message that academic accomplishment is just as crucial as athletic performance, a philosophy that benefits players long after their college careers end.

Fans and supporters should keep an eye on Hood as they continue to build on this dual legacy of excellence. Their achievements remind us why college sports are about more than just wins and losses—they are about preparing young people for a lifetime of success.

Hood College Men’s Basketball Earns NABC Team Academic Excellence Award