SEARCY — The Harding volleyball team was named a recipient of the 2026 AVCA Team Academic Award sponsored by INTENT, as announced Thursday by the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA).

It marks the 12th consecutive season the Lady Bisons have earned the national academic honor.

Harding achieved a 3.635 team grade-point average during the 2025–26 academic year to secure the award. Teams must maintain a minimum year-long GPA of 3.30 on a 4.0 scale to qualify.

By reaching the decade mark of consecutive honors, Harding remains highlighted among an elite group of programs recognized for sustained academic excellence over the long haul.

"It comes as no surprise to see our sport have more than 1,400 teams earn the AVCA Team Academic Award again this season," said AVCA CEO Jaime Gordon. "We are grateful for the dedication of the coaches and players who make both classroom and on-court success the lifeblood of their programs."

In total, 1,432 collegiate and high school volleyball programs across the country earned the award for the 2025–26 academic year.