KANSAS CITY, Mo. – UT Southern Women's Basketball earned national recognition this week, receiving votes in the latest NAIA Women's Basketball Coaches' Top 25 Poll following a statement win over previously undefeated and top-ranked Bethel (Tenn.).

The Firehawks' victory over Bethel proved pivotal in reshaping the top of the poll, as the Wildcats slipped from No. 1 to No. 2, allowing Dordt (Iowa) to reclaim the top spot by a razor-thin three-point margin. Bethel's loss marked its first defeat since falling to eventual NAIA national champion Dordt in the 2024–25 semifinals, underscoring the magnitude of UT Southern's breakthrough win.

UT Southern's performance resonated nationally, as the Firehawks collected 14 votes in the poll's "Receiving Votes" category. It marks a significant milestone for the program, which has not cracked the Top 25 during the UT Southern era. The program's last national ranking came in January 2020, when the team—then competing as Martin Methodist—appeared at No. 24 and No. 25 during the month.

The Firehawks' surge comes amid a strong stretch of play, highlighted by disciplined defense, balanced scoring, and poise in high-pressure moments against elite competition. Their win over Bethel not only halted one of the NAIA's longest active winning streaks, but also announced UT Southern as a rising threat on the national stage.

As the season continues, UT Southern will look to build on its momentum and turn national attention into a return to the Top 25 for the first time in more than five years.

FOLLOW THE FIREHAWKS
Stay up to date with all the latest action from UTS Athletics! Follow the Firehawks on social media:
Twitter: @utsathletics
Instagram: @utsouthernathletics
Facebook: @UT Southern Firehawks

Don't miss a moment — Go Firehawks!