Academy of Art University Athletics

After being named both PacWest Player and Newcomer of the Year last week, sophomore Krystal Forthan helped lead ART U  Women's Basketball to its second consecutive PacWest Tournament Championship with victories over Dixie State and California Baptist. The Portland, OR native averaged 27.0 points, 15.0 rebounds, and 3.0 blocks per game en route to being named Tournament Most Valuable Player.

Forthan put forth a 20-point, 14-rebound second half during the Urban Knights' relentless comeback against the Red Storm in the semifinal round on Mar. 7. She finished with 26 points and 16 rebounds while going 11-for-17 from the field. Then, in the championship game on Mar. 8, Forthan delivered a season-high 28 points and 14 rebounds (seven offensive) as Academy of Art dominated California Baptist in an 88-72 victory to secure back-to-back titles.

"This is my first ring ever so all the emotions just came out," Forthan said. "When I go out there, I just try to get the most rebounds of anyone on the floor because rebounds win games."