Phoenix College sophomore Olivia Deford has been named a Third-Team All-American after putting together a dominant offensive season helping lead the Bears to a 38-13 overall record and a 31-11 mark in conference play.
Deford was the catalyst of a Phoenix College offense that consistently ranked among the conference's best throughout the season. The sophomore outfielder appeared in all 51 games and finished the year with a remarkable .551 batting average, collecting 92 hits in 167 at-bats. Her 92 hits ranked second in conference while her .551 batting average led the conference and ranked among the top marks in the country.
A constant threat on the bases, Deford led the ACCAC with 63 stolen bases while scoring 61 runs, both of which ranked among the conference leaders. She added 12 doubles, four home runs, and 35 RBIs while posting a .591 on-base percentage and a .695 slugging percentage.
During conference play, Deford elevated her performance even further. In 42 conference games, she hit .572 with 79 hits, 55 runs scored, 32 RBIs, and 57 stolen bases. She finished conference competition ranked first in batting average, hits, stolen bases, and on-base percentage while ranking second in runs scored and total bases.
Deford's impact extended beyond the batter's box. Defensively, she recorded a .987 fielding percentage with 71 putouts, three assists, and just one error all season.
Her consistency and leadership were instrumental in Phoenix College's success, as the Bears finished 38-13 overall, including a dominant 19-3 record at home. The team secured 31 conference victories and earned a postseason berth behind an offense that was fueled by Deford's production at the top of the lineup.
The Third-Team All-American selection adds another accolade to an already impressive season. Congratulations!
