Abilene Christian seniors Payton Hull and Meredith Mayes landed on the preseason watch list for the 2027 Becky Hammon Mid-Major Player of the Year Award, making ACU one of three schools with multiple selections. Hull returns after earning Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year honors; Mayes is back from an injury that sidelined her for the final 19 games last season. Their return gives the Wildcats a high-profile duo as they begin the 2026-27 season.

By the Numbers
  • Hull averaged 18.3 points per game and led the WAC with 83 3-pointers and 94 steals last season.
  • Mayes shot 68.2% from the field and averaged 15.2 points and 7.9 rebounds in 16 games.
  • ACU went 24-11 in 2025-26, reached the WAC championship game and made its second straight WNIT Super 16.
  • The preseason watch list includes 25 players; the award’s winner is expected to be announced around the 2027 Women’s Final Four.
Yes, But

Hull’s recognition follows a full season of standout production, while Mayes’ numbers came before her injury ended her season. Her return could strengthen ACU, but her availability and form after the layoff remain important factors.

State of Play
  • Hull is 163 points short of ACU’s Division I career scoring record.
  • Mayes previously appeared on the award’s 2026 midseason watch list.
  • ACU opens its season Monday against Howard Payne at Moody Coliseum.
What’s Next

The award watch list narrows to 15 players in January, 10 semifinalists in February and five finalists in March. ACU’s immediate focus is opening the season with Hull leading the way and Mayes back in the lineup.

Bottom Line

Hull brings proven star power, and a healthy Mayes could give ACU one of the nation’s most productive mid-major duos—making the Wildcats a team to watch this season.