McLean County Times

A week after Illinois Wesleyan University hosted its annual PinkZone doubleheader, the event's impact remains evident at the Shirk Center. The PinkZone, a key fixture in IWU’s athletic calendar, featured the Titan men’s and women’s basketball teams competing against Wheaton College in a College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin doubleheader on January 25. The event celebrated athletics, academics, and community spirit.

For 18 years, IWU has honored individuals battling cancer through its PinkZone games, which began in 2007. This season continued the tradition with numerous memorable moments. Head Coach Mia Smith, a breast cancer survivor since 2011, led the IWU women in pink uniforms to raise awareness. After the women's game, Coach Smith invited cancer survivors or current fighters from the crowd to stand and be recognized. Players from both Illinois Wesleyan teams and Wheaton’s women’s team presented each individual with a flower.

The Titans raise funds annually through PinkZone t-shirt sales and a silent auction to support local cancer initiatives. This year’s proceeds were dedicated to helping Mary Kate Kroesch, a local high school student fighting sarcoma.

IWU also highlighted academic excellence during the event. At halftime of the men’s game, ten Titans were recognized as College Sports Communicators Academic All-America honorees for the 2023-24 academic year—the highest number in program history. Eight honorees attended: Annalese Chudy (women's cross country/track & field), Quinn Clifford (men's golf), Ethan Lowder (men's swimming), Lauren Huber (women's basketball), Lexi Onsrud (women's golf), Griffin Pohl (men's golf), Emma Thorman (women's golf), and Lauren Wong (women's track & field). Bobby Beaubien (men's golf) and Ethan Hart (men's lacrosse) were also honored but absent. Onsrud was named CSC Women’s At-Large Academic All-America of the Year.

As of January 15, 2025, Illinois Wesleyan has produced 161 Academic All-Americans across all NCAA Divisions and ranks ninth in Division III.

The day concluded with exciting basketball action at Shirk Center. The second-ranked IWU women extended their undefeated record to 18-0 with a decisive victory over Wheaton College. The men followed with a strong performance against Wheaton to improve their record to 16-2.