SALEM, Va. — Carroll University senior Natalie Gricius has been named a finalist for the 2026 Jostens Trophy, one of the most prestigious awards in NCAA Division III basketball, as announced by the Rotary Club of Salem, Virginia.
 
Gricius is one of 11 women's finalists nationwide selected to advance to the national selection committee, which will determine the recipients of the 2026 Jostens Trophy awards. The honor recognizes Division III student-athletes who exemplify excellence in basketball performance, academic achievement, and service to their communities, modeling the Rotary International motto of Service Above Self.
 
A senior forward from Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, Gricius authored one of the most accomplished seasons in Carroll women's basketball history during the 2025–26 campaign. She led the Pioneers throughout the season and capped her year by breaking the program's single-season scoring record, finishing with 639 points as Carroll advanced to the second round of the NCAA Division III Tournament.
 
Gricius' impact extended far beyond the scoring column. She served as the centerpiece of a Carroll team that enjoyed a record-breaking season, earning conference recognition and establishing itself as one of the top programs in the region. Her consistency, leadership, and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments were hallmarks of Carroll's postseason run and conference success.
 
The Jostens Trophy selection process begins with an extensive review conducted by the Rotary Club of Salem's Jostens Trophy Committee, which evaluates nominees over a two-week period before narrowing the field to 22 finalists — 11 men and 11 women. Finalists are then reviewed by the Jostens Trophy National Selection Committee, a group composed of athletic administrators, head coaches, past Jostens Trophy recipients, and Division III media members from across the country.
 
Now in its 28th year, the Jostens Trophy is one of the most distinctive awards in collegiate athletics, placing equal emphasis on competitive excellence, academic success, and community involvement. Winners of the men's and women's awards will be announced following the conclusion of the Division III national championship events.
 
Gricius' selection as a finalist places her among the elite student-athletes in Division III basketball and further cements her legacy as one of the most accomplished players in Carroll women's basketball history.
 
In addition to being named a finalist, fan voting is now open for the 2026 Jostens Trophy through D3hoops.com.
Fans can cast their votes through Thursday at 11:59 p.m. ET as part of the national fan vote, which helps spotlight the outstanding Division III student-athletes selected as finalists. Voting is available directly through D3hoops.com, with separate ballots for the men's and women's awards.
 
The Jostens Trophy fan vote provides supporters an opportunity to recognize finalists like Gricius, who exemplify excellence in basketball performance, academics, and service, aligning with the award's emphasis on the well-rounded Division III student-athlete.