Minnesota State's Natalie Bremer named DII Honda Athlete of the Year finalist

The senior basketball player is one of four finalists for the prestigious national award.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 10:15pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in navy, maroon, and gold tones, capturing the motion and intensity of a women's basketball game through Cubist-inspired shapes and planes.A cubist interpretation of the dynamic action and energy of a women's basketball game, reflecting the finalist's exceptional performance on the court.NYC Today

Minnesota State University senior Natalie Bremer has been named a finalist for the 2026 Division II Honda Athlete of the Year Award, presented annually by the Collegiate Women's Sports Award (CWSA) organization. Bremer is one of four finalists for the women's basketball category of the prestigious national honor.

Why it matters

The Honda Athlete of the Year Award is considered one of the highest individual accolades in Division II athletics, recognizing the top female student-athletes across all sports. Bremer's selection as a finalist highlights her outstanding performance and leadership on the basketball court, as well as her accomplishments in the classroom and community.

The details

Bremer, a 6-foot guard, led the Minnesota State Mavericks to a 28-4 record and the NCAA Division II Tournament Sweet 16 this past season. She averaged 18.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 1.7 steals per game, shooting 46.3% from the field and 40.1% from 3-point range.

  • Bremer was named a finalist on April 9, 2026.

The players

Natalie Bremer

A senior guard for the Minnesota State Mavericks women's basketball team.

Minnesota State Mavericks

The NCAA Division II basketball program that Bremer plays for.

Collegiate Women's Sports Award (CWSA)

The organization that presents the annual Honda Athlete of the Year Award, recognizing the top female student-athletes across all Division II sports.

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What they’re saying

“Natalie has had an incredible career at Minnesota State and is very deserving of this national recognition.”

— Emilee Thiesse, Head Coach, Minnesota State Mavericks Women's Basketball

What’s next

The winner of the 2026 DII Honda Athlete of the Year Award will be announced on May 1, 2026.

The takeaway

Bremer's selection as a finalist for the prestigious Honda Athlete of the Year Award is a testament to her exceptional performance and leadership on the basketball court, as well as her commitment to excellence in the classroom and community. Her accomplishments have brought national recognition to the Minnesota State Mavericks program.