- GVSU captures second NCAA Division II championship in program history
- Bisballe sisters combine for 27 points in title-clinching performance
- Defense holds opponent to 21 first-half points in decisive victory
- CSUDH completes historic 36-win season with first championship appearance
- GVSU's 38 victories set new program record for single-season wins
In a dominant display of defensive execution and freshman leadership, Grand Valley State University's women's basketball team secured its second NCAA Division II national championship Friday night. The Lakers' 70-58 victory over California State University-Dominguez Hills capped a record-breaking 38-win season that surpassed the achievements of GVSU's 2006 championship squad.
The Bisballe sisters emerged as unexpected heroes, with first-year player MacKenzie contributing 14 points and Rylie adding 13 off the bench. Their combined performance marked the highest scoring output by sibling teammates in a Division II title game since 2011. Head coach Mike Williams praised their adaptability: These freshmen played with the poise of seniors when it mattered most.
GVSU's defensive strategy proved devastating, holding the Toros to just 5 made field goals in the opening quarter. The Lakers forced 18 turnovers while limiting WBCA National Player of the Year Nala Williams to a season-low 7 points – 15 below her tournament average. Assistant coach Jenna Falkenberg noted, Our perimeter rotation disrupted their entire offensive flow from the opening tip.
The Midwest champions demonstrated why they ranked #1 in defensive efficiency all season, converting 22 opponent turnovers into 28 transition points. Ellie Droste's 11-point contribution and crucial second-chance baskets helped maintain momentum during CSUDH's third-quarter rally attempt.
This championship carries special significance for the Plitzuweit family legacy. Freshman guard Lexi Plitzuweit followed in the footsteps of her mother Dawn, who coached GVSU's 2006 title team before moving to Minnesota. The younger Plitzuweit's defensive intensity during her 18-minute stint drew particular praise from analysts.
Regional sports economists estimate the championship run generated $2.3 million in economic impact for Michigan's Ottawa County through merchandise sales and watch parties. This success mirrors recent mid-major trends where women's programs drive institutional visibility – GVSU's admissions website traffic spiked 137% during the tournament.
While CSUDH fell short of completing their perfect season, their 29-game win streak and first national final appearance mark a watershed moment for West Coast athletics. Star forward Asia Jordan's 17-point, 10-rebound performance cemented her status as a 2025 WNBA draft prospect.
The victory parade scheduled for April 13 in Allendale, MI, will honor a team that redefined excellence in Division II basketball. With all five starters eligible to return next season, GVSU appears positioned to challenge for back-to-back titles – a feat last achieved in 2018 by Central Missouri.