Graham Kroll Sets DBU Milestone as First Men's Basketball Player to Win Elite 90 Award

Graham Kroll has been awarded the prestigious NCAA Elite 90 Award for the 2025 NCAA Division II Men's Basketball Championship. 

Kroll, a Math and Computer Science major with a remarkable 3.97 GPA, boasts the highest academic standing among all participants in the Elite Eight. He was honored with the award at the NCAA Men's Basketball Awards Banquet, on Saturday evening on the eve of DBU's participation in the Division II Elite Eight in Evansville, Indiana. 

Dr. Fleitas, Dean of DBU's College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, boasts, "Graham is an outstanding student. As a past and current student of mine, I have seen him consistently show strong character, clear thinking, and a sharp mind. He is one of the brightest students I've taught, and he approaches his work with humility and discipline. He is a great example of a student who seeks to honor Christ in all areas of life."

Kroll makes history as the first student-athlete from the Dallas Baptist University men's basketball program to earn an Elite 90 honor, and he is also the first student-athlete from the Lone Star Conference to receive the Elite 90 award in Men's Basketball.

"Graham Kroll’s recognition as the Elite 90 award winner is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics. What truly sets Graham apart is that his foundation is in Christ, shaping the way he approaches every pursuit. I am personally so proud of Graham and grateful to have watched him lead as a student-athlete at DBU," said Matt Duce, DBU's Director of Athletics.

The Elite 90 Award recognizes the true essence of the student-athlete. This prestigious accolade is given to those who have not only excelled at a national championship level in their sport but have also achieved the highest academic standards among their peers. The Elite 90 is proudly awarded to the student-athlete with the highest cumulative GPA at the finals site for each of the NCAA's 90 championships. Eligible student-athletes are sophomores or above academically who have participated in a sport for at least two years with their school. All ties are broken by the number of credits completed. For more information on the Elite 90 award winners, visit the NCAA Elite 90 webpage.