2002 Women’s basketball team named to NEO Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2025

MIAMI, Okla. – Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College (NEO) is proud to announce the 2002 Lady Norse Basketball Team for induction into the NEO Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2025.

Under the leadership of Head Coach BJ Smith, the 2002 Lady Norse captured the Region 2 Championship with a commanding 77-55 victory over Carl Albert State College, earning their spot in the NJCAA Women’s Basketball National Tournament in Salina, Kansas.

The Lady Norse entered the tournament ranked No. 1 in the NJCAA poll with an undefeated 32-0 record. They defeated Arizona Western 78-73 in the quarterfinals and Chattanooga State 79-55 in the semifinals, advancing to the NJCAA National Championship game.

The team finished the season with a 35-1 record, averaging 103 points per game while holding opponents to just 55.2. Guard Maria Villarroel led the nation in scoring at 24 points per game, earning First Team NJCAA All-American honors.

Joining her was guard Brandi Russia, who also secured NJCAA All-American recognition, cementing the 2002 Lady Norse as one of the most dominant teams in NEO women’s basketball history

They will be formally inducted during NEO’s Hall of Fame Weekend, September 12–13, 2025.