UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – The Penn State women's basketball team celebrated its five-member senior class and handed out post-season awards Sunday afternoon at Lady Lion Cager Club Annual Banquet.
The Lady Lions, joined by Cager Club supporters, family members, athletic administrators and support staff, looked back on the 2018-19 season and honored the senior class (Amari Carter, Leah Knizner, Sarah McMurtry, Teniya Page and Kayleigh Semion) and senior managers (Amari Boyd, Gary DeGloria, Tyler Jachera, Holly Linkoski and Dan Szkudlapski) for all they have given to the program.
Academic Achievement Award – Sarah McMurtry
Sarah McMurtry took home the team's Academic Achievement Award for the fourth-straight year. McMurtry has epitomized what it means to be a student-athlete, tallying a 3.67 cumulative grade point average as an accounting major. McMurtry wrapped up her Lady Lion career as a three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection.
Tom Caldwell "Unsung Hero" Award – Karisma Ortiz
Karisma Ortiz was named the recipient of the 2019 Tom Caldwell "Unsung Hero" Award. Just a freshman, Ortiz stepped up in any way that was asked of her during the 2018-19 season. The California native was often given the toughest defensive assignments on game day and played multiple different positions throughout the season. Ortiz became a mainstay in the starting lineup, finishing her freshman campaign with 3.6 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game.
Jeanette Goss Courage Award – Alisia Smith
Alisia Smith claimed the Jeanette Goss Courage Award after exemplifying courage and leadership throughout the season. Smith was called upon to lead a group of young post players as just a sophomore. She showed toughness in returning from an early-season injury after just one game, before suffering a season-ending injury in mid-February. Smith's team-first attitude never wavered, as the forward continued to bring energy and cheer on her teammates at every practice and game. Smith finished her sophomore campaign with 9.5 points and a team-best 7.1 rebounds per game.
Robin Lombard Spirit Award – Kayleigh Semion
Senior Kayleigh Semion was named the recipient of the team's Robin Lombard Spirit Award. One of the hardest workers on the team, Semion continuously gave her all day-in and day-out while approaching every day with a team-first attitude. Semion began her time at Penn State as a member of the club basketball team before serving as a team manager. She earned a roster spot in her junior year and has made a positive impact on the team ever since.
In addition to the team awards, the following accolades were also given out by the Cager Club.
Ruth Ingram Fan Of The Year Award – Carol Alerich
Carol Alerich distinguished herself by displaying outstanding support for the Lady Lion Basketball program. At each home game, Carol can be found spending her pre-game time running around the concourse collect money from the 50/50 ticket sellers. She will do anything asked of the club to help promote a positive attitude of the Lady Lion Basketball team and the Lady Lion Cager Club.
This award was established based on Ruth Ingram's determination and insight to take the Cager Club to new heights when she was president. The goal of this award to recognize a Lady Lion Basketball Fan for their outstanding enthusiasm and support.
Kent Petersen Student Fan Of The Year Award – Daniel Kocher
Daniel Kocher was awarded the Kent Petersen Student Fan Of The Year Award. Kocher, a junior, is in attendance at nearly every Lady Lion game and has encouraged other students to attend as well.
The award is named after Kent Petersen who was a student writer for the Daily Collegian and a big supporter as a writer and a fan. This award was established following his sudden death while driving home from covering a Lady Lion away game at Tennessee. The goal of this award is to recognize a student fan who shows enthusiasm and support for the Lady Lion Basketball Program.
Hank Gambocurta Service Award – Jerry Fisher
Jerry Fisher, the long-time voice of the Lady Lions, was this year's recipient of the Hank Gamocurta Service Award. Fisher wrapped up his 40th year behind the mic in 2018-19 and is set to retire to Arizona. Fisher retired as the longest-tenured radio announcer in NCAA Women's Basketball.
Hank Gambocurta, the award's namesake, was introduced to Lady Lion basketball by Jerry Fisher himself many years ago. The goal of this award is the recognition of outstanding service to Lady Lion Basketball.
