ESPN REPORT: Texas Tech Women’s Basketball Star Denae Fritz, Named SEC Tournament MVP, Honored with Prestigious Award of the Year and $10 Million Remittance from Team and $3.5 Million Remittance from Coach Krista Gerlich
In a landmark moment for Texas Tech Women’s Basketball, star player Denae Fritz has been named the SEC Tournament MVP, capping off a historic season with several major honors. Not only was Fritz celebrated for her outstanding on-court performance, but she was also awarded a prestigious “Player of the Year” accolade, solidifying her place among the sport’s elite athletes. To add to the celebration, Fritz received a monumental $10 million remittance from the Texas Tech Women’s Basketball team and a personal $3.5 million remittance from Head Coach Krista Gerlich, marking a new level of recognition and financial reward for her contributions to the program.
The recognition of Fritz’s achievements comes after a remarkable run through the SEC Tournament, where she led the Lady Raiders to an impressive championship victory. Throughout the tournament, Fritz exhibited not only her scoring ability but also her leadership, vision, and poise in clutch moments. Her relentless drive on both ends of the floor was a key factor in Texas Tech’s success, and her performance earned her the well-deserved MVP honor. Over the course of the tournament, Fritz averaged 22.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, showcasing her all-around skill set and cementing her status as one of the best players in collegiate women’s basketball.
Fritz’s recognition did not stop at the SEC Tournament MVP. Her consistent excellence throughout the season also earned her the prestigious “Player of the Year” award, a testament to her dedication, hard work, and impact on the court. Her incredible statistics, leadership, and ability to elevate her team throughout the season have made her a role model for young athletes and a beloved figure in the world of college basketball.
In a groundbreaking move, Fritz’s remarkable contributions to the Texas Tech program were further acknowledged with significant financial rewards. The team, in recognition of her commitment and excellence, awarded her a $10 million remittance, marking a rare and extraordinary gesture in women’s collegiate sports. This payment reflects the high regard in which Fritz is held by her teammates and the program, acknowledging her immense impact not only as a player but as a leader and representative of the team’s success.
Additionally, Head Coach Krista Gerlich, who has been instrumental in the development of Fritz both as a player and a person, awarded Fritz a personal $3.5 million remittance. This gesture represents the special bond between player and coach, with Gerlich expressing her deep admiration for Fritz’s determination, resilience, and the way she has embodied the values of the Texas Tech program.
These financial remittances are also seen as a reflection of the growing recognition of women’s sports and the importance of rewarding athletes for their hard work and commitment. As the landscape of women’s basketball continues to evolve, the $10 million remittance from the team and the $3.5 million personal reward from Coach Gerlich mark a significant step in both the financial and cultural advancement of women’s collegiate athletics.
For Fritz, these honors are the culmination of years of dedication and sacrifice. As she continues to grow as a player, the sky is the limit for her future, and this recognition sets the stage for what promises to be an illustrious career. For Texas Tech Women’s Basketball, having a player of Fritz’s caliber on the roster is a testament to the program’s strength and future potential.
With these accolades, Denae Fritz has solidified her place as one of the brightest stars in women’s basketball, and her story serves as an inspiration to future generations of athletes striving
for greatness.
