LIVINGSTON, Ala. – Former University of West Alabama Women’s Basketball standout Ashton Washington has been selected to represent the Gulf South Conference as its nominee for the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s National Woman of the Year Award.  Washington, who will represent the GSC and its 15 member institutions, was selected by a committee appointed by the GSC Office.

“Ashton Washington is a winner” said UWA Director of Athletics E. J. Brophy. “She got the job done in the classroom as well as on the court and we are very, very proud of her and all of her accolades”.

Washington recently wrapped up a solid career for the Red and White after earning All-GSC honors in back-to-back seasons.  In 2007-08 the Lexington, Miss.-native reached the 1,000-point plateau for her career and is one of only four Tigers to ever reach that mark. Washington also led UWA in scoring with a 12.9 clip last season and posted a team best 8.4 rebounds per contest.  For her efforts this past basketball season Washington was named to the State Farm Division II All-American Team.  She helped guide UWA to appearances in the GSC Tournament as a junior and senior, and was also honored for her academic accomplishments by the GSC with a spot on the All-GSC Academic Team this winter. She will receive her degree from UWA in Business Administration and Journalism in August 2008.

“Ashton is very deserving of this award,” UWA Head Women’s Basketball Coach Amanda Marks said. “Ashton was a star player and one of my best in the four years she was here. I am very proud of her and think she is more than deserving of this honor.”

The NCAA Woman of the Year award honors senior student-athletes for their cumulative collegiate achievements in service, leadership, athletics and academics.