Dec. 17, 2014

ST. LOUIS - Missouri State sophomore guard Austin Ruder (Nixa, Mo.) has been selected as the Missouri Valley Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Week, Commissioner Doug Elgin announced today. Ruder was honored for his performances during the period of December 8-14.

In Missouri State's only game last week, Ruder helped lead the Bears to their second road victory in three tries this season by drilling 5-of-6 3-point shots against Southeast Missouri State, including a key four-point play in the second half. Ruder also matched a career high with 6 rebounds, dished out 4 assists and snagged 3 steals at the Show-Me Center. Over his previous two games, Ruder was 12-for-16 (.750) from 3-point range. His efforts helped the Bears secure their third win in four outings and second in a row.

He holds a 3.57 grade-point average and majors in accounting.

Indiana State junior track standout Katie Wise earned this week's MVC Scholar-Athlete honor on the women's side.

To qualify for Missouri Valley Conference Scholar-Athlete of the Week laurels, student-athletes must carry a cumulative grade-point average of 3.20, completed at least one academic year at a Valley institution and must be at least a sophomore in academic standing. First-year players are not eligible. In addition to the academic qualifications, student-athletes will be evaluated on their athletic performance for a one-week period.

Ruder and the Bears (5-4) return to action tonight for a 7 p.m. tipoff at Tulsa (5-5), in a non-conference road game that will be featured on ESPN3.com.

#MSUBears