The 1985 Millikin University Women’s Basketball team cemented its place in program history with a remarkable 23-3 season under the guidance of Head Coach Harriett Crannell, herself a Millikin Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee in 1990. At a time when CCIW competition had not yet been established for Women’s Basketball, the Big Blue showcased their talent and resilience on the national stage, advancing to the semifinals of the NCAA Tournament.
Millikin’s postseason run was defined by a series of thrilling victories. The team narrowly defeated Simpson College (Iowa) 62-60, William Penn (Iowa) 67-66 and Rust College (Miss.) 80-79 in Decatur, demonstrating clutch performance and determination. Their journey continued at the Final Four in De Pere, Wis., where the team faced Scranton (N.Y.), falling 83-75 before rebounding to claim third place with a hard-fought 76-73 victory over St. Norbert (Wis.).
Individual accolades highlighted the extraordinary talent on the roster. Lori Kerans ’85 earned Central Region Most Valuable Player honors and a place on the Final Four All-Tournament Team, while Michelle Mariage ’86 was named Team MVP. Several team members have since been inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame, including Terri Jones Kawczynski ’85, Paula Keller-Holtman ’88, Kerans and Mariage, cementing the lasting impact of their contributions.
The 1985 team remains a touchstone of excellence, teamwork and determination, inspiring generations of Millikin Women’s Basketball players. Their legacy is remembered not only in wins and awards, but in the competitive spirit and dedication that defined one of the program’s most outstanding seasons.
