WINFIELD, Kan. - The Southwestern College men's basketball has added yet another off-court award to its resume. The Moundbuilders have been designated as an NAIA Scholar-Team for the second time in as many seasons.

"It is truly an honor for our team to achieve this award for the second year in a row," head coach Matt O'Brien said. "I am thankful to work for an institution that truly values education, and to work with a staff that supports our vision for accountability on and off the court. Tim Miser and Gene Hartman work hard to help keep our players responsible for their studies throughout the year. We are also thankful for the support of our student development staff and faculty who go out of their way to help our athletes achieve at a high level."

The NAIA Scholar-Team award is the second major team award given to the Moundbuilders after the 2011-12 campaign. In March, Southwestern was awarded the 2012 Buffalo Funds Five Star Champions of Character Team Award, which is awarded to one college team in each sport that exemplifies character or sportsmanship during practice and competition, on campus, and in the community.

"We are striving to build a program that is built on character, work ethic and service to our community," O'Brien said.

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