Richard-Bassett is Chosen as NWC Men's Soccer Defensive Award Winner

By Robert McKinney, Assistant Athletics Director, Communications, (503) 370-6110

SALEM, Ore. -- Willamette University goalkeeper Anthony Richard-Bassett (Sr., GK, Salem, OR/South Salem HS) has been selected as the Northwest Conference Men's Soccer Defensive Student-Athlete of the Week for his efforts as the Bearcats defeated George Fox University on Sunday, March 28. The Bearcats defeated the Bruins, 5-1, to improve to 6-0 on the season and to 6-0 in the NWC.

Richard-Bassett played the first 45 minutes and shut out George Fox while earning one save. He led a strong defensive performance by the Bearcats that limited GFU to four shots in the first half and to six shots overall. Richard-Bassett registered the win as he improved to 5-0 on the season.

"Anthony has been very solid for us in the goal this spring and he is very deserving of this award," Willamette Head Men's Soccer Coach Jared Rust said. "He has been very dominant in the air and has really improved his distribution, which has helped our back line retain difficult possessions and transitions."

This spring, Richard-Bassett ranks first in the NWC with a 0.00 goals against average and a 1.000 save percentage. The Bearcats have outscored their opponents, 22-2, including four shutout wins.

Willamette will host Linfield University on Sunday, March 4 at Sparks Field. Game time is set for 3 p.m. (PDT).