Glendale, Ariz.- On Monday, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced the 2024 NAIA National Awards Day winners and Arizona Christian University Women's Basketball Player Emily Till was chosen as the female Emil S. Liston Award winner.

Per the NAIA announcement, "The Liston Award is named in honor of the NAIA's first executive secretary and the prime mover behind the men's basketball tournament, the Emil Liston Scholarship Award recognizes one junior men's and one junior women's basketball student-athlete who has shown high athletic and academic achievement."

"I am very excited to be selected for this award," commented Till.  "The Lord has blessed me with family, coaches, and teammates that are so supportive in everything I do.  Thank you to everyone who considered and selected me for the Emil Liston Award."

"In 40 years of coaching, I have had very few student-athletes that have displayed Emily's love for others and leadership in such a consistent and passionate way," stated ACU Women's Basketball Coach Rusty Rogers.  "What she has accomplished on the court pales in comparison to what she does day in and day out representing Christ, her family, and Arizona Christian University."

The following paragraphs were in the NAIA release on Emily's behalf:

Emily Till's positivity and tireless work ethic have distinguished her as a rising star on Arizona Christian University's women's basketball team.  

Majoring in behavioral health, Emily has excelled academically, maintaining a 4.0 GPA and earning the Daktronics Scholar-Athlete award. Emily is also deeply involved in campus life, participating in initiatives like the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Young Life, a faith-based leadership organization. In both groups, Emily has quickly emerged as a leader, encouraging others to achieve their full potential.  

On the court, Emily's success is equally evident. Averaging nearly double-double in points (9.1 ppg) and rebounds (10.7 rpg), Emily helped rally her team to an at-large NAIA national tournament berth. Additionally, Emily holds the school record for most rebounds in a single game.

All national day award winners will be honored in person at the awards luncheon as part of the NAIA National Convention that will take place April 3-7 in San Diego, CA.

Emily- Congratulations on being selected as one of the very best in the NAIA and winning the Emil S. Liston Award!