Press Release

Novmeber 7, 2006

Bell Signs NLI for Northwest Women's Basketball

MARYVILLE, Mo. - Northwest Missouri State womens head basketball coach Gene Steinmeyer announced the early signing of Alicia Bell (St. Joseph, Mo.) to a National Letter of Intent today (Nov. 13). Nicknamed the "Bear," Bell will graduate from Benton (Mo.) High School in the spring of 2007. The 5-5 guard is a prep under coach Brett Goodwin.

"People who judge Bear on her size will be in for a big surprise," said Steinmeyer. "She will bring a lot to Northwest on both ends of the court. Alicia is a winner and will add many intangibles to this program."

At Benton High, Bell is a four-year varsity starter averaging a double-double as a sophomore and junior. As a second-year player, Bear averaged 14 points, 11 rebounds while earning first team all-state, all district and all-city honors. She followed that season with a 13 point, 10 rebound junior campaign while being tabbed with all-state honors again. Heading into 2006-07, Bear is a High School McDonald's All-America nominee.

The Bearcats open the regular season with Rockhurst on Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. in Bearcat Arena