SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Augustana women's basketball player Aislinn Duffy has been named the NSIC South Division's Preseason Player of the Year while the women's basketball team has been picked third in the NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll.

The NSIC coaches picked Duffy, a senior, to be the South Division's Preseason Player of the Year. The Rapid City, South Dakota, native enters her fifth season with the Vikings entering her senior year with the program. 

Last season Duffy averaged 15 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. Duffy was the only player in the NSIC to average a double-double on the season while collecting 12 double-doubles in total last year. 

"Aislinn is an outstanding all-around player," Augustana head coach Dave Krauth said. "She has worked extremely hard to continually develop and improve her game.

"She plays an undersized post but has learned how to compensate, especially on defense against bigger players. Her leadership will be key to this team."

The Vikings return 12 players from their 2021-22 roster, along with adding three newcomers. In addition, Drave Krauth enters his 34th and final season with Augustana.

"We will have a versatile squad and we will be able to play up-tempo or slower if the situation dictates," said head coach Dave Krauth. "We have a nice blend of veterans and new players."

Augustana opens its season at the Sioux Falls Tip-Off Classic Nov. 11 and 12. The Vikings will see the Tigers of Fort Hays State on Friday Nov. 11 and the Griffons of Missouri Western on Saturday Nov. 12.

NSIC Preseason Coaches' Poll
1. Minnesota State (8)              
2. Minnesota Duluth (7)             
3. Augustana (1)                   
4. Sioux Falls                     
5. Concordia - St. Paul          
6. Northern State               
7. St. Cloud State              
8. University of Mary           
9. MSU  Moorhead                   
10. Bemidji State                   
11. Winona State                          
12. Southwest Minnesota State       
13. Wayne State                
14. Minot State             
15. Upper Iowa               
16. Minnesota Crookston            

South Division 
1. Minnesota State (6) 
2. Augustana (2)             
3. Sioux Falls                
4. Concordia - St. Paul     
5. Winona State              
6. SMSU                    
7. Wayne State               
8. Upper Iowa                 

– GoAugie.com –