Whitman Women’s Basketball ranked number 1 in the nation

After beating out Lewis & Clark College 77-70 this past Sunday, D3Hoops.com ranked Whitman's women's basketball team No. 1 in the nation. This is the first time that the team has held the top spot in Division III. Whitman is also a top-ranked tam according to USA Today's Division III Coaches' Poll and the Massey Ratings.

"The number 1 ranking is a reflection of a great season, but it also shows the respect the Northwest Conference has earned on a national level in women's basketball," Head Women's Basketball Coach Michelle Ferenz said. "Anyone who knows Div III women's basketball knows how good our conference is. I am excited for our program to receive this recognition, but also for our conference."

The team is a perfect 25-0, a run that they hope to continue during this week's Northwest Conference Semifinal game against the University of Puget Sound.

The players have handled the pressure of the season well, Ferenz said. "I am very proud of our players. They have really stayed focused on getting better and winning each game, not looking too far ahead at any point and competing hard every day in practice."

But, she adds: "Rankings don't win games. We learned that lesson the hard way last season, and have kept the rankings in perspective all season. The only thing that matters right now is getting ready to play a very good Puget Sound team on Thursday."

The Women's Northwest Conference Semifinal takes place on Thursday, Feb. 27, at 6 p.m. in the Sherwood Center.