Wahpeton’s Tylee Irwin is already one of the most decorated athletes in South Dakota State history. From playing the most games to scoring 1379 points as a Jackrabbit, Irwin could be considered one of SDSU’s greatest athletes.

However, there is one more accolade to add as the Summit League’s nominees for NCAA women of the year.

“To be nominated by people who have made my career so special is awesome to me, it really made me feel great about my time at SDSU,” Irwin said.

Tylee Irwin helped South Dakota State women’s basketball to a 127-37 record and five Summit League titles, but the best memories were the ones that became first for the program.

“Being able to reach a Sweet 16 when I was an upperclassman, that set a really high standard. SDSU has high standards already. To make history in that way was really special and this year to end it on a WNIT championship was amazing.”

Irwin is one of many student-athletes pursuing a profession outside of sports. In the fall, she’ll attend chiropractic school at Northwestern an area that sparked her interest by having to battle through back injuries. Those experiences will help create future success.

“Things aren’t always going to go your way even after you work for them but there is always going to be people there to support you,” Irwin said. “I’ve learned a lot of responsibility. Being on time to things. Time management and not everything is going to be based off your schedule. You’re not going to be able to make your own plans and people will be affected by your actions.”

The list of nominees will be narrowed down to 9 finalists with the winner announced at the NCAA’s convention in January.