A-State Athletes Break GPA Record for 2nd Straight Term

Student-athletes at Arkansas State University are rewriting the narrative about balancing sports and academics, smashing their own GPA record for the second semester in a row.

The Red Wolves athletic department posted a 3.25 GPA for spring 2026, topping their previous record of 3.24 from fall 2025. Even more impressive? A record-breaking 68 student-athletes earned perfect 4.0 GPAs, and 244 total made the Athletics Director's Honor Roll by maintaining a 3.0 or higher.

These aren't just numbers on a page. They represent late-night study sessions after grueling practices, tutoring appointments squeezed between games, and the determination to succeed in every arena.

"Breaking the single-semester GPA record in back-to-back terms speaks volumes about their dedication and the strong support system provided by our coaches and academic staff," said Vice Chancellor for Intercollegiate Athletics Chris Pezman.

The success spans every corner of the athletic program. Both semesters featured at least 14 sports with team GPAs above 3.0, showing this isn't about one standout team but a culture of academic excellence.

Why This Inspires

The achievement goes beyond semester grades. Arkansas State recently posted its highest-ever Graduation Success Rate at 87 percent, and four sport programs earned perfect 1,000 scores in the NCAA's Academic Progress Rate.

These student-athletes are proving the old stereotype wrong. You don't have to choose between athletic dreams and academic success. With the right support and dedication, you can chase both and catch them.

Their department-wide APR average of 981 ranks as the fifth highest in the program's 20-plus year history. That's sustained excellence, not a lucky semester.

The 244 students on the honor roll come from every sport, from baseball's 39 honorees to bowling's 10. They're studying everything from business to biology while representing their school in competition.

These young people are building foundations for life after sports while creating memories on the field. They're showing up for their teams and their transcripts, understanding that both matter for their futures.

In a world that often tells young people they must narrow their focus to succeed, Arkansas State's student-athletes are proving you can be well-rounded and excellent at everything you do.