CSUDH’s Nala Williams was named the 2025 NCAA Division II Player of the Year by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA). It’s the first time in the program’s history that a player has taken home the prestigious award.

The junior guard played in all 38 games for the Toros, helping guide the team to their first-ever appearance in the NCAA National Championship game. Williams led the team in scoring and assists, while leading the entire nation in steals—her quick hands and hustle were vital to the Toros’ high-pressure defensive schemes.

Williams, a native of Long Beach, Calif., was also named to the WBCA All-American First Team. Her national honors capped off an incredible season in which she was also the California Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Player of the Year, CCAA Defensive Player of the Year, All-CCAA First Team, DII CCAA West Region Player of the Year, All-West Region First Team, and a member of the CCAA All-Tournament Team.

“This award is such an honor,” said Williams. “I just feel blessed to be in the position that I am. Being able to represent my school for the whole nation is very cool. The DH community is very special—everyone cares about everyone else. It felt really nice to represent a community like that.”

CSUDH head coach John Bonner added, “Nala is the epitome of what it means to be a teammate. She’s one of the most selfless, confident, hard-working young women that I have been fortunate enough to coach—truly a coach’s dream. Nala puts in the work every day. She honors the game with her time, energy, and approach.

“I’m proud to see her reap the benefits of the work she has put into the game. She deserves everything she has earned.”

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