Madison Francis Named To 2026 Naismith Defensive Player Of The Year Watchlist

STARKVILLE – Madison Francis , one of the nation's most elite defenders, was named to the 2026 Naismith Women's Defensive Player of the Year Watchlist. Francis is one of 25 student-athletes and one of four freshmen across the nation to be recognized. On the defensive side of the ball, Francis is averaging 3.0 blocks and 1.5 steals this season, making her the only player in the country to do so. Francis also collects 4.1 defensive rebounds per game. The Southeastern Conference's block leader has collected four games this season with six or more blocks, making her the only player in...