Big news out of NYU: two incredible athletes, swimmer Kaley McIntyre and basketball guard Caroline Peper, have been named finalists for the DIII Honda Athlete of the Year Award. The announcement, made on April 7, puts them in the running with nine other standout Division III women for one of the top honors in collegiate sports. The winner—decided by senior women administrators—will be revealed live on July 27 during a CBS Sports Network broadcast in New York City.
Both McIntyre and Peper have been making headlines for the Violets. McIntyre just wrapped up a jaw-dropping swimming career, leading her team to their very first NCAA team championship this March, and tying the Division III record with 11 individual national titles. Peper, for her part, capped off a stellar run with NYU basketball—guiding the team to its third consecutive Sectional Championship and a Final Four appearance, while also setting new program benchmarks in both three-pointers and career scoring.
## Standout Performances
McIntyre’s swimming résumé is almost too good to be true: 27 First Team All-American nods, three-time NCAA DIII and UAA Swimmer of the Year, four conference records, and seven school records. She’s also a CSCAA First Team Scholar All-American. Reflecting on her finalist spot, McIntyre shared, “I am very honored to be recognized as a finalist for this award… my team and my teammates have inspired me with their hard work and determination to succeed.”
Her coach, Trevor Miele, couldn’t agree more: “Every year I’ve worked with her, she’s continued to grow as a leader. She’s developed into the greatest Division III swimmer of all time.”
## Peper’s Impact on NYU Basketball
Peper finishes her NYU career with 1,432 points and a program-best 112 three-pointers made. She’s racked up national honors like WBCA Division III Player of the Year and various All-American awards. On being a finalist, Peper said, “I’m truly honored to be nominated for this award … and to represent NYU and all of Division III women’s basketball.”
Head Coach Meg Barber highlighted Peper’s legacy, both on and off the court: “What’s most special is the lasting impact she’s had on our program and the NYU community. She’s excelled at balancing the demands of being a Mathematics major with leading her team to national prominence.”
## NYU’s Expanding National Presence
Having two DIII Honda Athlete of the Year finalists really cements NYU’s growing reputation in the college sports world—especially in New York City. These nominations reflect not just individual excellence, but the success of NYU’s athletic programs overall, from national wins in swimming to deep basketball tournament runs.
## What’s Next?
The big announcement comes July 27, when the DIII Honda Athlete of the Year will be named on CBS Sports Network. A win for either McIntyre or Peper would mark a major milestone for NYU and shine an even brighter spotlight on New York City’s contribution to Division III athletics.
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