CLINTON, S.C. – Presbyterian College sophomore Daniella Velez has earned recognition as a College Sports Communicators (CSC) Academic All-District selection, announced Tuesday. The honor recognizes Velez’s combined achievements on the basketball court and in the classroom, a testament to her dedication as a student-athlete. This prestigious award highlights not only athletic prowess but also a commitment to academic excellence, a balance Velez has demonstrably achieved during her time at Presbyterian.
Velez’s selection to the CSC Academic All-District team underscores the importance of well-rounded student-athletes. To qualify, nominees must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher, participate in at least 90 percent of their team’s contests, and be at least a sophomore academically and athletically. The College Sports Communicators, formerly known as CoSIDA, has been recognizing academic and athletic achievement since 1952.
A Productive Season on the Court
The sophomore guard enjoyed a productive 2023-24 season for the Blue Hose, appearing in all 30 games and making 22 starts. Velez averaged 5.4 points per game, reaching double figures in scoring on four occasions. Her most impactful performance came in the regular season finale against Longwood on February 28, where she scored a career-high 17 points while shooting an efficient 7-of-11 from the field. Presbyterian College’s women’s basketball schedule shows the team finished the season with an overall record of 12-18.
Velez’s contributions extended beyond scoring. She finished second on the team with 29 made three-pointers and also ranked second in assists with 40. Defensively, she was a key contributor, recording 36 steals – the third-highest total on the team – and blocking nine shots, tying for second-most on the roster. Her all-around game made her a valuable asset for the Blue Hose throughout the season.
Beyond Athletics: The Kay Yow Servant Leader Award
What truly sets Velez apart is her commitment to service and leadership. She was awarded the prestigious Kay Yow Servant Leader Award, an honor recognizing individuals who embody character, prioritize the needs of others, and demonstrate grace and humility. The Kay Yow Cancer Fund describes the award as being given to “those who put the needs of others before their own, who uplift others, and who do it with grace and humility.” Velez was among a select group of women’s basketball players across all NCAA divisions to receive this recognition.
The Kay Yow Servant Leader Award is particularly meaningful, named in honor of the late Kay Yow, a legendary women’s basketball coach who battled cancer with unwavering courage and grace. Yow’s legacy extends far beyond the court, emphasizing the importance of character and service. Velez’s receipt of this award speaks volumes about her personal qualities and her dedication to making a positive impact on those around her.
What’s Next for Velez and the Blue Hose
This is the first CSC academic honor for Velez, marking a significant milestone in her collegiate career. As a psychology major, she continues to excel in her studies while balancing the demands of Division I athletics. The Presbyterian College Psychology Department offers a curriculum focused on understanding human behavior and mental processes.
Velez’s success serves as an inspiration to her teammates and a source of pride for Presbyterian College. She will now advance to the CSC Academic All-America ballot, where she will compete against other outstanding student-athletes from across the nation. The CSC Academic All-America teams will be announced in April. Fans can follow updates on the Presbyterian College Athletics website and social media channels for further announcements.
As Velez continues her academic and athletic journey, she embodies the ideal of the student-athlete, demonstrating that success can be achieved both on and off the court. Her commitment to excellence and service sets a high standard for others to follow.
Readers seeking support for mental health and well-being can find resources at the National Institute of Mental Health and the Mental Health America websites.
Share your thoughts on Velez’s achievement and the importance of student-athlete recognition in the comments below.
